STAGS teachers tackle epic bike ride in memory of colleague

Geoff and Sue Reason, who both teach at STAGS raised more than £3,400 for the British Heart Foundation (Image: Archant)

Husband and wife Geoff Reason and Sue Reason, who both teach at St Albans Girls’ School (STAGS), cycled from Kings College in London to Paris to raise money for the British Heart Foundation.

The pair took on the cycling challenge after their beloved colleague, Dr Ray Oliver, died of a heart attack while on holiday with his family last year and they hoped to raise £3,000.

They first cycled to Portsmouth and caught the overnight ferry to Caen. On the second day they rode from Caen to Evreux and on the third day they made it to Paris to be greeted by family members in front of the Eiffel Tower.

Sue Reason said: “Our London to Paris bike ride has been a challenging and enjoyable experience. What really kept us going was the thought that so many people had sponsored us, so we knew we couldn’t give up.”

Dr Ray Oliver worked closely with Sue as they were both science teachers. She said at the time of his death: “He was a real gentleman who had time for all the students.

“He knew how to enthuse all the pupils and he was so good at doing fun experiments. There will be lots of medics and teachers out there who he has taught.”

The pair managed to raise £400 more than their target with the help of students and staff.

Debbie Smith, who also works at STAGS, said: “Earlier in the year STAGS community endeavoured to help raise funds for this very worthy charity.

“Both Mr and Mrs Reason pledged to individually raise a target total of £1,500 each before they could qualify to take part in the London to Paris bike ride.

“STAGS community were quick to respond to their call for help. Together they supported a non-uniform day, a staff cosmetic sale, a cake sale, a competition, a quiz night, afternoon tea sessions and also created a giant heart out of loose change.”