WHEN the charitably minded ‘Vending Does’ team completed a bike ride from Malaga to Vilamoura, it received a surprise boost to their fundraising, courtesy of Hale Barns businessman John Broderick.

Vending Does is a team of vending professionals who combine their love of cycling with a passion for raising money for deserving causes. Their most recent fundraising adventure saw them cycling 300 miles in 3 days, raising £3,000 for the Diamond Blackfan Anaemia charity along the way.

However, upon reaching their destination – the AVS vending conference in Vilamoura – the team was greeted with more than just a round of applause.

For leading-edge vending and refreshments business, Broderick’s boosted the £3,000 sponsorship received from a wide range of supporters by a further £2,000 – taking the total raised to £5,000.

Diamond Blackfan Anaemia (DBA) is a small charity that aims to deliver support, research and hope to the DBA community. DBA is a rare bone marrow failure disorder, where patients fail to produce red blood cells properly and may need treatment ranging from monthly blood transfusions to regular steroid treatment.

Managing director of Sharston-based Broderick’s, John Broderick, said: "The Vending Does chaps really poured blood, sweat and tears into an extremely challenging charity ride. Not only did they cycle 300 miles, but climbed 17,000 feet on their bikes! I take my hat off to them and we’re delighted to support such a great cause.’’