A wheely good challenge for charity
As celebrities recover from their epic Sport Relief challenges a new charity sporting event has been launched.
The new cycle challenge will be held this summer which takes in the beauty of Shropshire while raising money for the county's children's hospice.
The North Shropshire Cycle Challenge on June 10 offers an 85 mile sportive, plus a 35 mile fun route suitable for all.
It is being organised by the Shropshire Gentleman's Club which has raised £300,000 for Hope House Children's hospice over the past decade through annual balls and the members undertaking challenges such as cycling to Paris.
Major Gifts Manager Vanessa Thomas said it was sure to be a fantastic occasion with refreshment and cheer stations along the route at Newport, Wem, Hope House in Oswestry, Ellesmere and Whitchurch. There will be a barbecue and bar for spectators and riders on the finish line at The Grove School in Market Drayton.
Standard entry fees are £25 for the sportive and £20 for the fun ride, but a £5 Early Bird discount is currently available. All of the entry fees, and any optional sponsorship raised, will go directly to Hope House.
"It is a fantastic new fixture on the county's cycling calendar," she said.
"The longer route will prove challenging for regular riders, while the shorter route is a great way to explore the local countryside with the support of refreshment stations, a bike doctor and support vans.
"At the same time, everyone who takes part will be helping to fund the vital care and support Hope House provides to terminally ill local children and their families, and to families who have been bereaved."
To see route maps and sign up visit www.shropshirecycleride.com Also returning on August 5 is the annual Hope House Cycle Challenge which starts and finishes at Hope House after a 56 mile route to Lake Vyrnwy or a 70 mile route to Lake Bala. It costs just £25 to register in advance at www.hopehouse.org.uk/events
