Paul Barlow, Director of Stockport-based communications consultancy Smith Goodfellow PR, has raised an impressive £1,540 for The Christie charity by completing the Manchester to Blackpool Bike Ride on 13th July 2025. Paul completed the 60-mile challenge in 4 hours 35 minutes starting from Salford Quays and finishing beneath the iconic Mirrorball on Blackpool’s South Promenade.
Inspired by personal experiences and friends battling cancer, Paul’s ride was more than just a challenge – it was a meaningful mission to support life-saving cancer research:
“It was an easy decision to enter the ride,” said Paul. “Two of my closest friends and several acquaintances are currently battling cancer. My mother also fought cancer twice before passing away in her late 50s. Supporting The Christie, a leading light in cancer research, felt like the right thing to do.”
The Christie charity funds vital projects that go beyond NHS services, supporting pioneering research and enhanced care for cancer patients. Smith Goodfellow PR, a long-standing advocate for community engagement, encourages its team to take time off for charitable causes. Paul’s participation in the ride reflects the company’s deep-rooted commitment to social responsibility. It also contributes to the business-wide challenge for the team to participate in 45 charity or community initiatives between May 2025-April 2026, in celebration of the company’s 45th anniversary.
Paul has already raised £1,560 through his JustGiving page, and the total continues to grow with donations still open.
“Even £1 can make a difference,” he says. “Let’s reduce the big C to a small c.”
To support Paul’s fundraising efforts, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/paul-barlow-8