CYCLISTS are being urged to saddle up and sign-up for a new charity bike ride to help people with learning disabilities to enjoy the thrill of riding too.
The Ride for Bikes 60km Hilly Challenge in support of Heart of England Mencap will take place on Sunday June 25.
Starting and finishing at Meon Vale Leisure Centre cyclists will take on a 60km route through Warwickshire and Gloucestershire, including climbs of the Cotswold hills.
All of the money raised will support Mencap’s cycling project to fund adapted bikes so the charity’s customers can enjoy riding too.
Stratford-based The Rosconn Group are sponsoring the event and town centre business ShoeMed are also supporting it.
Fundraising manager for Mencap, Cath Errington said: “Experiencing the thrill of cycling is something our customers get a huge amount of joy out of – but adapted bikes are very expensive.
“Our small fleet of bikes and trikes is growing thanks to previous fundraising, grants and donations – and in particular the proceeds of the 2016 Lions Raft Race, which raised a huge amount to support the project.
“But we still need funds to do even more. We are now ever closer to realising our ultimate dream too – a dedicated track with storage on site plus parking, toilets and refreshment facilities. Hopefully Ride for Bikes will get us there.”
And those keen to get involved but lacking the legs to take on the full 60km challenge can still be part of the event too, with a fun, indoor static ride taking place on the day at Meon Vale.
Registration is £30 per cyclist, to include food and refreshments.
Visit www.heartofenglandmencap.org.uk for further details.
