Published on: 17 Aug, 2025
Updated on: 17 Aug, 2025
From Tanya Lock
Next Wednesday, 20th of August, the village of Compton will welcome a team of six amateur cyclists as they make a special stop in the Surrey Hills on their challenging 700km journey from Trowbridge to Amsterdam to raise funds for Ukraine war relief efforts.
The cyclists, led by Ukrainian-born Maksym Oberemok, will pass through the historic village of Compton as they travel from Trowbridge to Guildford, Dover, Calais, Middelburg, and finally Amsterdam.
“This journey is about combining sport with showing support and solidarity for Ukraine,” explains Maksym. “None of us are professional cyclists, and we’ve never attempted anything like this before, but we’re determined to complete this four-day challenge to help those suffering in my homeland.”
The team, which includes Shai Bonnick, Jake Nickerson, Tom Robins, Jack Wakeman, and Jose Manalili, aims to raise £2,000. The majority of funds will support a children’s hospital in Kharkiv, with the remainder providing critical aid such as hygiene items, first aid kits, and direct donations to trusted volunteers in Ukraine.
This initiative builds upon their remarkable track record of humanitarian work. Over the past three and a half years, the team has fostered a vibrant community of more than 30 young sports enthusiasts and Ukraine aid supporters across Wiltshire, who have collectively tackled numerous athletic challenges.
These include half marathons and triathlons, with several first-time runners achieving impressive finishing times despite their inexperience.
£40,000 ( including £25,000 for humanitarian support) previously raised has:
– Delivered two 4×4 vehicles packed with aid directly to Ukraine
– Helped fund a third vehicle full of supplies
– Provided direct donations to volunteers working in Ukraine
– Supported family members involved in the war
The cyclists will stop in Compton, for a night, as the first break for this trip, after the longest and most challenging ride.
The team will welcome local residents to greet them as they pass through the local area, and learn more about their fundraising efforts.
If anyone would like to show support to this team, please donate here