In August, we will be undertaking a gruelling cycle challenge - completing the final 550 km of the Via Francigena, a famous pilgrimage route, to raise vital funds for York Women’s Counselling Service. The distance, the heat, and the fact we're both over 60 and faced some health challenges in recent years, will make this a pretty tough endeavour.

Background

Our journey began in 2019 when we cycled 600 km from Switzerland to Tuscany to celebrate our 60th birthdays. We planned the complete the journey following year. 

But life conspired against us and our plans to get to Rome were thwarted by a breast cancer diagnosis followed by the global pandemic. 

Three years on we’re determined to finish our journey from Tuscany to Rome this summer.  Like many women who are supported by YWCS we’ve had plenty of ups and downs along the way and more to come.  But, with your support we know that we can make it.

The challenge

The challenge is to cycle for 11 consecutive days, 35/40 miles a day.  Training has started in earnest, much needed as we’re three years older and perhaps not quite as fit as we were! 

Our challenge is self funded, and logistics organised by the lovely Neil, so all your sponsorship will directly benefit women in York.  And specifically, women who otherwise would not be able to afford counselling at all.

How you can help..

We have a hardship fund (the Spring Fund) which covers the cost of counselling when a woman is unable to make any contribution and all support from the ride will be for that purpose. Each £15 that you give will mean another hour of counselling for a vulnerable woman.  

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to York Women's Counselling. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for this great cause.