I’m fundraising again for Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin in my Shrewsbury Mayoral as they celebrate their 76th anniversary. Their mission to combat loneliness and isolation among local older people is close to my heart because of the unhappiness they bring, leading to poor mental and physical health and sometimes premature death in those who have no-one to turn to.

I’ve seen first hand how loneliness can affect older people, and I want to help make a difference. That’s why I’m participating in another fundraising bike ride this year, hoping that lots of people will participate or donate generously.

I'm also keen to encourage older people to start or resume cycling in local groups to maintain their physical and mental health, to choose Active Travel ways of getting around Shrewsbury and Shropshire and to help the Climate Change Crisis by leaving their cars at home for short journeys. There are new designs of bike for all abilities and those with additional needs and I hope that people with these newer design bikes will join us for the event.

This year, the Bike Ride will start and finish at Shrewsbury Town FC on Sunday 19th July 2026 from 9:30am and all adults are welcome, particularly senior citizens. You should register before the cycle date and there is an entry fee of £15 per cyclist. Please also ask for sponsors if you can and we're suggesting £50 to £75 sponsorship in total, but whatever you raise will be gratefully accepted.

Cycling UK Shropshire Branch has kindly supported this ride and members will be taking part. Participants can use either a standard or a hybrid electric assisted bike to ensure that we have fun and that it's not too onerous. It is not a race.

We're also extremely grateful for the support of The Public Health Team at Shropshire Council, Cycling UK Shropshire, The Shropshire Cycle Hub (and their Cycling 4 All team) and Sustrans Shropshire.

We hope that many Shrewsbury and Shropshire businesses and other organisations will lend their support.