A fundraising challenge in memory of community champion Ranjit Singh has raised vital funds for Willen Hospice after cyclists completed a 156-mile ride through Buckinghamshire and beyond.
Lal and his team took part in this year’s Willen Hospice Sportive, riding the official 100-mile route before adding an extra 52 miles – one for every year of Ranjit’s life – plus a final four miles, finishing at 156.
Ranjit, who died suddenly in May at the age of 52, was the former Commercial Director at Willen Hospice and a well-known figure across Milton Keynes. His career spanned estate agency, senior management at The Co-operative Group, and a period as Philanthropy Director at Milton Keynes Community Foundation before he joined Willen Hospice in September last year.
Beyond his career, Ranjit gave his time and energy to civic life. He was a board member at MK Gallery and India Day MK, and co-founded the Milton Keynes Ethnic Business Community, a network set up to support and connect ethnic minority professionals and entrepreneurs. Tributes following his passing described him as a passionate advocate for inclusion, community spirit, and collaboration across Milton Keynes.
“Ranjit was there at the start line of last year’s sportive, just before beginning his role at Willen Hospice,” said Lal. “His passion for the community and for the hospice’s mission was obvious from the very beginning. Riding those extra 52 miles was a small but meaningful way of honouring him.”
Supporters and hospice staff gathered at the finish line to welcome the cyclists home. “The reception was incredible – it was emotional, exhausting and uplifting all at once,” added Lal.
Donations are still being collected in Ranjit’s memory, with proceeds supporting Willen Hospice’s work providing specialist palliative care across Milton Keynes.
