Local lads embark on charity ride

Dunford Bridge, Penistone, and Oxspring – In a remarkable display of determination and community spirit, six local lads have set out on an epic charity ride, spanning the breadth of the country. Lee Shepherd, Rich Hirst, Wayne Hirst, Jay Crossland, Devan Slater, and Rob Harwood are taking on the challenge of cycling coast to coast, from Southport to Hornsea, in a bid to raise funds for Sheffield Children's Hospital.

The intrepid group of cyclists will be traversing the renowned Trans Pennine Trail, covering an impressive 210-mile distance over three days. Their journey is scheduled to commence on the 30th of June and will pass through Dunford Bridge, Penistone, and Oxspring on the 1st of July.

As they tackle this gruelling feat, these local lads are reaching out to the community for support. They warmly welcome fellow cyclists and well-wishers to join them for a mile or two along the local portion of the trail. The group plans to be passing through Dunford Bridge, Penistone, and Oxspring between 10-11 am, and the camaraderie of additional riders would provide a much-appreciated boost.

Lee Shepherd, one of the riders, expressed their motivation, saying, "We are by no means professional cyclists, but we are fully committed to conquering this challenge with unwavering determination. Together, we hope to make a meaningful contribution to Sheffield Children's Hospital, a cause close to our hearts."

To facilitate their fundraising efforts, the team has set up an Instagram page and a Just Giving page, where individuals can contribute to their cause. Any support, no matter how big or small, will make a significant difference in achieving their target and benefiting the hospital.

In addition to monetary donations, the group is also actively seeking assistance from local businesses. They are on the lookout for products that can aid their journey, whether it be through recovery or nutritional needs, or anything that can enhance their performance along the way. The lads are particularly interested in items that could be used as raffle prizes for an upcoming quiz night they are organizing to further bolster their fundraising efforts.

"If your company believes it has any products to donate that would aid us on our journey or serve as raffle prizes, we would be immensely grateful," emphasised Jay Crossland, another member of the group.

With the end of June rapidly approaching, the local lads are gearing up for their incredible coast-to-coast adventure. Their commitment to supporting Sheffield Children's Hospital is an inspiration to the community, and they are eager to receive any support, both on the road and off, as they pedal towards their fundraising goal.

To stay updated on their progress or contribute to their cause, on their strava page or donate directly through their Just Giving page www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/lee-shepherd12. Let's rally together to support these local lads and help them make a lasting impact on the lives of children in need.