Cyclists complete 150 mile cycle ride for county charity

The 150-mile cycling weekend was the 10th annual canal-side bike ride, organised by cyclist and fundraiser Andy Grubb, from Newport.

It started on Saturday and finished on Monday at his local pub, the King’s Head.

As well as offering a chance to meet up with fellow amateur cyclists, the event also raised money to support children and families who use the vital services of Shropshire’s Hope House children’s hospice.

The annual cycling weekend covered 150 miles over the three days, and followed the picturesque Shropshire Union Canal path to Chester.

Riders were asked to contribute £100 to cover the cost of two nights’ bed and breakfast and provision of a support van and buffet at the end.

Andy has been organising bike weekends for 28 years.

They have all been between 150 and 160 miles and have raised thousands of pounds for different charities.

Andy and his intrepid cyclists said they had enjoyed a lovely weekend completing the latest ride, and have now raised more than £2,000, with more cash still coming in and being counted up.

He said: "It was a great weekend with only a couple of mishaps, including a few bike repairs, and only one rider in the canal!"

He added: "We also had to wait a while for a stubborn cow to move off the towpath.

"The weather was a mix of sunny and overcast, and the atmosphere was bright.

"It was a pleasure to organise this event for Hope House children's hospice – a charity which means such a lot to local families and to which some of our riders are connected to."

Friends Gerry Rowles and Richard Oakes were among riders joining Andy.

Speaking ahead of the event, Gerry, who last took part 10 years ago, said he was happy to be back on his bike after recovering from a heart attack.

He said: “It’s been a journey to get back to how I was before and this is something I really want to do. I’ve been out and about practising around Shifnal, Newport and Lilleshall, and am really enjoying being back on the saddle and meeting with friends. If I’m honest, I’m a fair weather cyclist, and like to plan routes around nice cafes.”

Richard meanwhile knows organiser Andy from weekly five-a-side football meets.

he said he was not sure what to expect when he first joined, but enjoyed it so much, he had now joined for his sixth time.

He said: “The company’s always different and always really good. I’ve made some great memories over the years.

“Andy is the organiser, it simply wouldn’t happen without him. The logistics, hotels, support etc are all down to him.”

Andy chooses a different charity each year.

Hope House and Ty Gobaith children’s hospices charity was nominated by cyclist Nick Powell.

Nick said: “I was keen to support a local charity. I know staff who work at Hope House, near Oswestry, and am aware of the amazing work they do supporting children with life-threatening conditions and their families.”

People can still sponsor the team at www.hopehouse.org.uk/newport-cycle.