Cyclists of all ages clocked up the miles on Bank Holiday Monday to raise money for a life-saving volunteer service in Ashley and Loggerheads.
Almost 70 people took part in a Three Counties Cycle Challenge organised by Helen and Nick Furnival of Hungersheath Farm in Ashley.
Cyclists had the choice of a 12, 20 or 40 mile ride through Shropshire, Staffordshire and Cheshire, with a barbecue waiting for them at the finish.
The challenge raised £670 for Ashley and Loggerheads Community First Responders (CFR) whose volunteers provide emergency cover to people living in rural areas before an ambulance arrives.
Helen said: “Cycling is something my husband Nick and I have done a bit of and we wanted to do something for the community.
“Ashley and Loggerheads CFR is a very worthwhile charity; they are dedicated volunteers and provide an excellent service to the community.
“It was our first attempt at anything like this and we
didn’t know what to expect, so we were delighted with
the turnout which was double what we expected.
“There was so much positive feedback that we’re considering the possibility of doing it again next year.”
Helen said she came up with the idea after she and her husband’s fundraising efforts last year for Marie Curie Cancer Care when they cycled the length of Ireland.
She added: “The majority of cyclists who did the challenge were local, but we had a small group from Newport who cycled 30 miles to join us, did the 40-mile ride and then cycled 30 miles back.
“There was a very positive atmosphere on the day, it was well-supported by the cyclists and people who helped and everybody really enjoyed themselves in supporting a good charity.”
By Winston Brown
