a team of Aycliffe endurance cyclists has been recognised with a ‘Hero Award’ thanks to its record breaking success! Blood, Sweat and Gears – the brainchild of Mark Stephenson, CEO of PWS successfully undertook a 500km cycling challenge across South Africa which it was hoped, through sponsorship, would raise £250,000 for Help for Heroes of which Mark is a long-term supporter. However, thanks to generous supporters, the tally grew to an incredible £314,000, making it the highest amount of any singular, third-party fundraising challenge ever donated to Help for Heroes. In recognition of this phenomenal achievement, Blood, Sweat and Gears has received the Charity’s Hero Award for Extraordinary Teams. The money raised by the team will fund three additional psychological wellbeing advisors over three years for the charity’s psychological wellbeing program; Hidden Wounds. The programme delivers early intervention mental health support for wounded, injured and sick veterans and their families.  Melanie Dickinson, Interim Centre Manager at Phoenix House said, “We never doubted that Mark, PWC and all their supporters would reach their huge target of £250,000 but for them to surpass it, and by so much, is simply outstanding. It will go a long way to supporting beneficiaries with their mental wellbeing, enabling us to help change, and in some cases save, lives.” Among the cyclists were PWS staff, four veterans being supported by Help for Heroes, and ex-rugby international Will Greenwood, who described the challenge as one of the most incredible experiences of his life. “We did it for all the right reasons, with generosity of spirit, warmth and – in no small way – funding to help do so much in Catterick,” he added. “I’ve had the opportunity over many years to work with some great people and many great teams but Blood Sweat & Gears, no question at all, goes right to the top of that list for integrity, humility and downright blooming courage.” Mark Stephenson said he was extremely proud to have made the record-breaking donation to Phoenix House, adding: “I extend my heartfelt and sincere thanks to our suppliers, customers and the truly great British public who embraced my ‘pie-in-the-sky’ idea. They were behind us all the way and ensured that Blood Sweat & Gears exceeded all expectations.” The Hero Award were launched in 2010 by Help for Heroes co-founders Bryn and Emma Parry, as a way to say thank-you to extraordinary supporters for voluntarily going above and beyond and giving up their time to assist the charity in delivering lifelong support to wounded heroes. Bryn Parry, CEO and CoFounder of Help for Heroes said: “For those suffering an injury or illness due to service, their recovery can last a lifetime. Knowing they have remarkable organisations like PWC standing beside them, willing to do amazing things, makes a huge difference on their recovery journey. Together we are rebuilding lives, so thanks and please keep doing your bit for ‘the blokes’