Colleagues of Hartlepool cyclist killed in road collision raise thousands to help save others lives

Graham Pattison, a married dad of two, died in an incident also involving two cars on the A689 between Wynyard and Sedgefield on Friday, July 24.

Friends at IRIS Software Group in Stockton where he worked as a much-loved project manager have completed a charity event in his memory.

Graham, a Liverpool fan, loved trekking and cycling outdoors, so over the weekend of November 6 to 8 a group of IRIS employees took to the hills for a Covid-safe virtual charity walk.

Just before the announcement of a second lockdown, 70 IRIS workers were due to hike up Roseberry Topping and Captain Cook’s Monument in North Yorkshire.

But despite the adversity of coronavirus restrictions, employees put on their walking boots and trekked in spirit of the event in their own local areas.

Anna Stephens, senior technical author at IRIS Software Group raised over £3,200 herself.

She said: “Graham was funny, caring, and hardworking and was liked by everyone.

"When I heard the tragic news, I really wanted to do something in his memory. So, I started to share his story on social media and get in touch with people across my network.

"Thank you to everyone who has donated – the funds will be of great benefit to both charities.”

All the money raised is for the road safety charity Brake and The Great North Air Ambulance Service which were chosen by Graham’s family.

His wife Victoria said: “Graham spent many happy hours climbing Roseberry Topping over the years, and I know he will be walking along beside all of his amazing colleagues and friends in spirit.

"We’re so proud of the lasting impression Graham has made and the impact he continues to make with money being raised in his name for two worthy causes.”

IRIS colleagues from across the country have also been wearing t-shirts with the two charity’s logos have raised over £1,800.

Chris Malcom, Development Manager at IRIS Software Group, added Graham was a stalwart of the Stockton office with a warehouse-sized stock of humour.

Anyone who wishes to give in Graham’s memory can visit www.uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ThePattisonHike

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