Community pub to host biggest-ever charity challenge event in Wolverhampton

A Wolverhampton pub known for its strong community spirit is preparing to host its biggest charity challenge yet - with not‑for‑profit health cash plan provider Paycare confirmed as sponsor of the event’s flagship netball tournament.

The Royal Oak in Chapel Ash, currently Pub Aid’s Community Pub of the Year, is celebrating its 120th anniversary with The Oak 120 - a full day of endurance challenges designed to bring local people together and raise funds for the Midland Freewheelers Blood Bikers.

The volunteer‑run service provides urgent, out‑of‑hours transport of blood, breast milk and medical supplies to NHS hospitals across the region.  Their fleet is relied upon daily, and with running costs of £1,500 a week, fundraising is essential.

Money raised from The Oak 120 will help replace one of the charity’s ageing vehicles, ensuring volunteers can continue delivering life‑saving support across the West Midlands.

Taking place on Saturday, June 6, the event brings together a darts marathon, motorbike ride‑out, cycling challenge, charity trek, running relay and netball tournament.  All routes finish back at The Royal Oak, where the pub will host a community celebration with food, live music, and entertainment.

This is the fourth large‑scale challenge day organised by the pub and marks a special moment for landlord Terry Cole, who has run The Royal Oak with his wife Emma for the past nine years. The pub has been in Emma’s family for 21 years.

“The Oak 120 is everything we love about this community,” Terry said. “It brings people together, encourages friendships, and raises money for a charity that saves lives every single week.

“We have six Blood Biker volunteers who regularly frequent the pub, and so it’s a cause close to our hearts. Paycare’s support will make a huge difference, and we’re incredibly grateful.”

Terry also volunteers as the Blood Bikers’ Membership Secretary and Dispatcher, making the fundraising effort especially meaningful.

Paycare’s sponsorship, provided through its My Giving initiative, will fund trophies, medals and participation awards for the ‘Paycare Cup’ tournament - helping to create a memorable experience for players across the Ladies’, Men’s, Mixed and Junior categories.

Ant Burns, CEO of Paycare, said: “The Royal Oak is a brilliant example of community spirit in action. Terry and the team have created something really special with The Oak 120, and we’re proud to support this year’s netball tournament and help shine a light on the incredible volunteers at Midland Freewheelers.  

“I’m personally using part of my own My Giving allocation this year to support the event, as it’s a cause that resonates deeply with me and reflects the kind of community support My Giving was created to champion.”

For more information about The Oak 120, visit the pub’s website, or to donate to the Midland Freewheelers visit: justgiving.com/page/thebig120relayday