More than 430 cyclists from across Gloucestershire took to their bikes as part of Sue Ryder’s iconic Ride for Ryder challenge.
The popular event, now in its 36th year, has so far raised more than £61,000 for Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice – a record-breaking amount – with donations still coming in. The money raised, the most ever at the annual event, will go towards supporting the hospice’s expert and compassionate palliative care and bereavement support services.
Supported by over 100 volunteers and sponsored by Cape Homes, 432 cyclists set off from Dean Close School in Cheltenham on Sunday 7 July and followed one of five routes through the stunning scenery of the Cotswolds. With distances ranging from 40km to 160km, riders were treated to spectacular countryside views as they cycled through villages including Broadway, Chipping Campden and Bredon.
Alongside the main event, younger cyclists also had the chance to saddle up and compete in a series of races in the grounds of Dean Close School, raising an impressive £1500 for the charity. Organised by Cheltenham Town Wheelers Grass Crit and tailored for various age categories from children under eight to novice adults, each race lasted from 10 to 30 minutes.
Matt Reay, Community Fundraising Manager at Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice, said: “It’s been a fantastic event, and we were thrilled to see so many riders turning out to support us. We are absolutely blown away with the record-breaking amount of money raised this year. This incredible £61,000 will help us continue to be there when it matters for families across Gloucestershire.