The Annual Fisher Cycle Challenge took place on May 20 and raised an astounding £22,000 for charity.
This amount was an increase of almost £5,000 from the previous year. 
The funds were recently distributed to the three local charities selected to benefit from the cycle at a presentation evening at Severfield’s offices in Ballinamallard. 
Brian Keys, Managing Director of Severfield NI was delighted to give each of the three charities a cheque for £7,500 each, thanking the charities for their continued work in the community and for worthwhile causes across Fermanagh and beyond. 
The money could not come at a more critical time for one of the beneficiaries, Fermanagh Stroke Association with heightened tension within the organisation following the announcement of the potential closure of the Stroke Unit at South West Acute Hospital (SWAH).
Patricia Moore of the Fermanagh Stroke Association highlighted the importance of the Unit within the County and the critical timings for treating those who suffer a stroke which could mean the difference between life and death in the event that the Stroke Unit would be closed in Fermanagh. 
Cancer Connect NI, another beneficiary, was also deeply grateful for the monies raised which will be spent continuing to provide first hand assistance to cancer sufferers and their families within Fermanagh.  Their client list continues to grow and the monies raised will be instrumental in the charities ability to support those affected with the disease. Jengana, a charity borne out of Ballinamallard, supports children’s homes and orphanages in Kenya. 
Franseur Mukula from Jengana said: “You have no idea how far such an amazing amount will go to our projects in Kenya. The children we support have nothing but, wit h these funds, we can offer them a safe home, food, an education and a future. We are truly grateful to Severfield for making a difference in the lives of these children.” 
Work has already begun in earnest for Fisher Cycle 2018. 
“2018 will see the fifth anniversary of the Fisher Cycle Challenge. We are determined to make this event bigger and better each year and especially as we celebrate five years of its success. The event began as a leisure cycle open to employees and their friends and has now grown into a regular diary date for cyclists across the County and beyond,” said Brian Keys, “Saturday, May 19, 2018 is the date for next years’ cyclee and further information will be placed on the website .” 
Brian also acknowledged the pride in retaining the Fisher name in association with the cycle, something for Ernie Fisher, also in attendance on the evening, was very grateful. 
Details of the event when available will be found at www.fishercyclechallenge.co.uk .