Hello, may I please introduce myself.

I’m Steve Tate, Founding Managing Director of Washington Metalworks Limited.

Over the last two weeks, I self-funded a trip to join a team of Professors, Consultants and Surgeons, as well as patients of "The Urology Foundation", based in London, to cycle in Sri Lanka.

I did this, in the hope to raise funds to support the brilliant ongoing research and treatment of Prostate Cancer, carried out by Professor Kirby of the Urology Foundation and his team.

I would also, alongside the brilliant work carried out by the Urology Foundation, like to personally thank the Gateshead Primary Care Breast Cancer Unit for the care, compassion and skill whilst successfully treating my wife Judy for breast cancer.

The trip started in Columbo, Sri Lanka, from which we travelled to Ngumbo Sri Lanka, the team covered approximately 430 Kilometres over 5 days.

The cycle ride was arranged and supervised by the team at Dream Challenges, may I take this opportunity to thank them for their professionalism and support.

I’d best describe the journey as arduous, a humbling education, coupled with a sense of inspiration, fulfilment and relief as we neared the completion stage.

It was an eye opening and a heart warming experience to see the dedication of school staff in a school we visited enroute. Seeing the parents pride as their children sang “We Shall Overcome”.

Our cycling group donated educational materials, sports kit and cash to support this, as it was one of the poorest regional schools. It was humbling to see the never-ending smiles of the children enduring such tough conditions.

All donations raised will be divided equally between Gateshead Hospital and The Urology Foundation, all and any donations will be gratefully received.

Thanks for your help if you’re able to, seasons greetings and here’s to a successful 2025.

Regards

Steve Tate