Mark Francois, MP for Rayleigh and Wickford, recently participated in the Industry and Parliament Trust (IPT) 24 hour charity cycle ride which was held on a stationary exercise bike in the Houses of Parliament to raise money for The Poppy Factory.
The IPT were supported over the course of 24 hours with help from over 40 MPs, Mr. Speaker, the Deputy Sergeant at Arms, security officers and even members of the Colchester Military Wives choir (who were in Parliament at the time). Participants were each invited to cycle for 10 minutes at a time, reaching a total of 280 miles; the equivalent to cycling from the Houses of Parliament in Westminster to the European Parliament in Brussels.
Since 1922, The Poppy Factory (formerly the Disabled Society) has employed wounded, injured and sick ex-service personnel in its factory, and in recent years has expanded its work to facilitate employment of wounded, injured and sick ex-service men and women throughout the UK. The Richmond Factory itself employs 47 members of staff, who are responsible for the manufacture of poppies, wreaths and Remembrance crosses in the lead up to Remembrance Day.
Melanie Waters, CEO, The Poppy Factory said, “Ex-Service men and women have a fantastic work ethic, are disciplined, trustworthy and used to performing within a team. Many have qualifications that are invaluable for companies today. However, an injury or delayed illness can shatter their lives. We want to help them regain their self-respect and confidence in order to earn a living, so that they can feel a valuable member of society again”
Commenting on the 24 hour cycle, Mark Francois said:
“As the new Minister for Defence Personnel and Veterans, I was delighted to be able to support the Poppy Factory by taking part in the 24 hour cycle in Portcullis House. The charity does fantastic work to help those servicemen and women who have made enormous sacrifices for their country reintegrate themselves into the world of work, which can de a daunting prospect, especially when following an injury or illness. I think it is important we give something back to our Armed Forces in recognition of everything they do for us.”