St Richard’s Hospice annual Bikeathon event was not just the hottest on record but also looks set to smash previous fundraising targets.
The popular cycling event – which set off early on Sunday 1 July in temperatures of 30 degrees and more – looks set to raise up to £20,000.
The 250 participants saddled up for the challenge at the Worcester-based hospice before pedaling off on one of three routes, 16, 45 or 64 miles.
Kelly Johns, Fundraiser at St Richard’s said : “What an amazing day we had at our July Bikeathon event this year! Even though temperatures soared throughout the day, spirits were high and there was such a fantastic atmosphere between participants, supporters and all those who took part in some way. We’d like to say a heartfelt thank you!”
Finishing at the hospice – with the last rider coming in at 3.45pm – the courses passed through the beautiful South Worcestershire countryside with regular rehydration stops.
The 16 mile route passed through villages including Kempsey and Pirton; the 45 mile route took in Eckington and Pershore and the longest route taking cyclists as far afield as Broadway and Snowshill.
The event was sponsored – for the third year running – by Tewkesbury-based Midland Communications; its team of more than 20 staff, family members, customers and friends all came out to support the event, some doing the 16 mile route with others tackling the 45 and 64 mile routes.
Dave Webster, Director at Midland Communications said : “All the staff had a great day riding through the beautiful Worcestershire countryside and we would like to thank the organising team at the hospice who made the day run so smoothly. We are incredibly proud to be associated with St Richard’s who do so much good in our communities.”