THE Whitehead Tour de Gwent 2019 celebrated its fifth year in style with more than 700 riders taking part in the challenging cycling event.

Newport-based Whitehead Building Services, which has been associated with the charity fund raising event every pedal of the way, is delighted with the success of the cycling ‘sportif’.

Whitehead managing director Rhys Morton has taken part in the event each year since its inception, with this year being no exception.

Keen cyclist Rhys said: “Whitehead has had a long association with St David’s Hospice Care which we are delighted to continue through the sponsorship of the Whitehead Tour de Gwent. A number of our 150 staff were involved in the event on the day from riding the route to helping out as marshals.”

Kris Broome, of St David’s Hospice Care, said the annual event was a successful, major fund raiser for the charity. “The event has grown in stature and popularity over the past five years to stand as a most important event in the cycling calendar.

“People from all over descend on Gwent for the Whitehead Tour de Gwent which in turn is a great benefit for us in the funds it helps create for the charity. ”

Franca Nigro, who organises the event for St David’s Hospice Care, said: “It is a huge organisational task to put this event on but one which is very worthwhile for the charity and very much appreciated by the entrants. We couldn’t do what we do without the brilliant support of our valued sponsors, including Whitehead Building Services, who have been with us every pedal of the way over the past five years.”

The Whitehead Tour de Gwent 2019 routes included the gruelling platinum (93 miles), gold (78 miles), silver (52 miles), bronze (30 miles), midi (20 miles) and kids (three miles).