KGM Motors UK, formerly known as SsangYong, is supporting a major charity cycling challenge through its dealership partner Blackshaws Morpeth, which has provided a KGM Musso pick-up as the official liaison vehicle for the Big BEDMAX Bike Ride.
The 400-mile journey aims to raise £25,000 for the Freeman Heart & Lung Transplant Association (FHLTA).
The week-long event, organised by BEDMAX, began on 20th June and will see riders travel from Hampshire to Northumberland.
Leading the team are Tim Smalley, managing director of BEDMAX, and Olivia Leyland, operations manager.
The ride is being held in honour of Tony Robinson, BEDMAX’s Production Development Manager, who underwent a life-saving lung transplant at Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital.
The multi-award-winning Musso, supplied by Blackshaws Morpeth, is supporting the entire challenge by transporting Tony and offering logistical support across the seven-day route.
Will Blackshaw, Company Director at Blackshaws Morpeth, said: “Having been family friends with Tony for many years, when he reached out and explained the challenge, it was an honour to offer our support for such an amazing feat, but more importantly, a way to support such an important charity.
“We wish the team all the best for both this event and the others throughout the year.”
Blackshaws Morpeth, a family-run dealership with over 100 years of heritage, has a long-standing track record of community engagement.
Its recent initiatives include the launch of the Blackshaws Northumberland Rugby Volunteer of the Year 2025 Award, recognising grassroots contributions across the local sporting scene.
Customers can explore the full KGM vehicle range at Blackshaws’ Coopies Way showroom, including the Musso pick-up, Rexton, Korando, Tivoli, Torres, all-electric Torres EVX, and the newly launched Actyon.
The dealership also offers a full suite of aftersales services including servicing, MOTs and repairs.
The Big BEDMAX Bike Ride will pass through key locations including Andover, Wantage, Banbury, Newark, York and Yarm, with a meaningful stop at The Freeman Hospital in Newcastle before concluding at BEDMAX’s Northumberland headquarters in Detchant, near Belford.
Smalley said: “This is far beyond anything we’ve done before, but it’s a fantastic way to mark our 25th anniversary and raise awareness and funds for a cause that’s very close to all of us.”
The Freeman Heart & Lung Transplant Association supports patients and families throughout their transplant journeys and funds vital research to improve outcomes.
Chair Adele Lambert added: “We at the FHLTA are honoured to be chosen by BEDMAX as their charity of the year. Tony’s personal journey highlights the importance of what we do.”
All proceeds from the challenge will go directly to the FHLTA, supporting their ongoing mission to save and improve lives through transplant support and research.
