Story
Sunday 4th July - We made it !!
After 3 days of riding, 240 miles, several tons of pasta & flap-jacks; the rain stopped, the clouds moved aside and the sun shone down as we came across the Clifton Suspension Bridge last night to complete the journey from St. Austell to Bristol.
The experience was immense for all who took part:
The hills! Including the climb up to Bodmin Moor, the climb up to Exmoor (part 1), the climb up to Exmoor (part 2 - why are hills created like that!?), Priddy Hill outside of Wells, and not to mention Wraxall hill - the final test after close to 230 miles in the saddle...
The camaraderie! A great bunch of riders - the St. Stephens team, including honorary member/rider John Watling; the RFPL support crew; and everyone on the ride. Tons of encouragement, great atmosphere, and a lot of laughs along the way.
The Hospices. We visited Little Bridge House near Bideford on the morning of day 2, and Charlton Farm in Bristol on the afternoon of day 3. Seeing the facilities first hand and having the chance to meet some of the families and children who benefit from them reminded us all why we were doing it.
Thanks to everyone who has played a part either through donations, time, or general support - parents and staff at St. Stephen's, friends, families, and colleagues. The St. Stephens team was commended by the organizers for their contribution and with over £6000 raised or committed Darren crossed the finished line wearing a red jersey to recognise the St. Stephen's team!
Thank you!
Steve, Christian, Adrian, Richard, Darren, and Mike
About the Ride and the CHSW
On Friday 2nd July nearly 100 riders will set off from St. Austell in Cornwall to complete a 240 mile bike ride over 3 days in aid of the Children’s Hospice South West; the journey finishes on The Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol on Sunday evening. Among the riders will be a team of Dads from St. Stephen's School in Bath who are jointly aiming to raise a minimum of £6,000 towards the £100,000 event target.
The CHSW helps and supports children and their families who are living with life limiting or life threatening conditions. They have centres in Bristol and Bideford, and a new hospice is currently being built in St. Austell. The CHSW is the only organisation to provide vital hospice care to families in the South West, and although there are over 1000 children who could benefit from the Hospice’s care, they are currently only able to provide space for up to 400 families.
All expenses associated with the ride are paid directly by the riders. Every penny received will be used to make a big difference to families who really need it - thank you for your support!