Publish date: 17 March 2026
When baby Herbie was born nine weeks early, it was the start of a frightening and uncertain time for his mum Jess Richardson and their family from Royston, Barnsley. Now, in a show of gratitude for the care they received, Jess’s partner and friends are taking on a 62-mile charity bike ride to raise funds for the neonatal teams who helped them through those difficult weeks.
Cyclists will take on a return bike ride from Barnsley Hospital to Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust on 10 April 2026, raising funds for the Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) supported by Tameside & Glossop NHS Charity and Barnsley Hospital Charity.
The challenge has been organised by family and friends of Herbie, who was born prematurely on 17 November. Due to a shortage of NICU beds in Barnsley at the time, Herbie and Jess were transferred to Tameside, where he received specialist neonatal care.
The fundraising ride will see the group, including Herbie’s dad, cycle from Barnsley to Tameside Hospital before returning to Barnsley, completing the 62-mile round trip in a show of gratitude to both hospitals for the care and support they provided during a difficult time.
Jess Richardson, Herbie’s mum, 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, said “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.”
You can support the cyclists and donate via their JustGiving page.
