Pedal power for Tameside and Glossop neonatal team

A group of determined cyclists are set to take on a 62-mile charity bike ride next month in a heartfelt show of thanks to the neonatal teams who cared for baby Herbie after his premature birth.

When Herbie was born nine weeks early on 17 November, it marked the beginning of a frightening and uncertain time for his mum, Jess Richardson, and their family from Royston, Barnsley. Due to a shortage of Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) beds locally, Jess and her newborn son were transferred to Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust, where Herbie received specialist care.

Now, in a bid to give back, Herbie’s dad, along with family and friends, has organised a fundraising bike ride between Barnsley Hospital and Tameside Hospital. Taking place on 10 April 2026, the challenge will see the group cycle from Barnsley to Tameside Hospital and back again, completing the 62-mile round trip.

Funds raised from the ride will support neonatal services through Tameside & Glossop NHS Charity and Barnsley Hospital Charity, helping to provide additional equipment, resources and comforts for families experiencing similar situations.

Speaking about the experience, Jess Richardson said: “When Herbie arrived nine weeks early, it was an incredibly frightening time for us. Because there were no NICU beds available in Barnsley, we were transferred to Tameside where both of us received such amazing care and support.

“The teams at both hospitals helped us through one of the most challenging times in our lives. This bike ride is our way of saying thank you and giving something back so other families going through similar experiences can be supported too.”

Emily Whelan, Charity Manager at Tameside & Glossop NHS Charity, praised the effort, saying: “We are incredibly grateful to Jess, her partner and their friends for taking on this fantastic challenge. Neonatal care makes a life-changing difference for babies and their families, and fundraising like this helps us provide additional equipment, resources and comforts that go beyond what the NHS can fund.

“We wish the cyclists the very best of luck and are proud to be working alongside Barnsley Hospital Charity to support such an important cause.”

Jane Mills, Charity Development Manager at Barnsley Hospital Charity, added: “Stories like Herbie’s highlight just how vital neonatal services are and how hospitals work together to ensure babies receive the care they need.

“We’re delighted to support this inspiring fundraiser and are thankful to everyone taking part. The funds raised will help us continue improving the environment and support available for families whose babies need specialist care.”

Members of the public can support the cyclists and donate via their JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/62milesbarnsleytotameside