3 days, 12 cyclists, 215 Miles ... and £11,000 for Teddy20!

In an extraordinary display of determination and solidarity, 12 adventurous cyclists took to the roads in June, covering 215 miles across France, Belgium, and Holland as they cycled from Dunkirk to Amsterdam. Their three-day journey was raising funds for Teddy20, the Blandford-based children’s cancer charity.

The feat was not only about physical endurance but also a shared commitment to an important cause.

The team of cyclists – Owen Newton, Alice Jewer, Matt Wilkey, Kevin Strafford, James Blackham, Lewis Fish, Robert Smith, Jonny Pyke, Simon Stranger, Gary Johnson, William Fyfe, and Andrew Rodden – include many with personal stories of the way in which Teddy20 has supported themselves or a loved one. They pedalled their way through picturesque landscapes and historic towns, and the team’s fundraising total currently stands at more than £11,000!

Making a difference

Teddy20 is committed to supporting young cancer patients and their families, ensuring they never face the battle alone. The funds raised by the cycling team will make a huge difference, providing essential support, financial help, and emotional care to those affected by childhood cancer.

Along the journey, the cyclists not only pushed their physical limits but forged unbreakable bonds, supporting each other through every challenge. Their camaraderie transformed a gruelling task into an unforgettable shared triumph. They were backed up by a supportive crew, including Brian Wareham, Jill Budd, Adam Gonthier, and Sophie Ferry, and sponsored by various local businesses. Teddy20 has expressed profound gratitude to the cycle team, back-up crew, and sponsors.

The team’s fundraising page remains open until the end of August.

• If you’re interested in signing up for the next Teddy20 Charity Cycle Challenge contact sophieferry@teddy20.org to get your name on the list.

Motorbike riders - you’re invited to Ride Out for Docbike!

DocBike, a motorcycle injury prevention charity, is calling motorcyclists to join their annual Dorset ride out on Sunday 24th September. Last year’s event raised over £8,000, with more than 400 riders participating! This year, riders can choose between two scenic routes: a 30-mile ride from The Churchill Arms in Alderholt, and a 40-mile ride from West Bay Esplanade in Bridport – both ending at Henstridge Airfield. The finishing line will welcome riders with music, refreshments, stalls, and the chance to meet the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance crew.

DocBike works to get highly trained trauma doctors or critical care paramedics on two wheels, to reduce deaths and serious injuries on our roads due to motorcycle collisions. Working alongside local emergency services, they provide life-saving roadside critical care.

Registration for the ride out starts at £10 and includes entry into the grand raffle.

Riders are encouraged to raise a minimum of £25 for the charity, which receives no direct government funding.

Dr Ian Mew, Co-Founder and Trustee of DocBike, emphasised the importance of this event in supporting the charity’s lifesaving work: ‘“This is our big event for DocBike each year and the support of the local motorcycling community means so much. We’re dedicated to being there for anyone who needs emergency critical care.’

• To register for the event or for more information, visit DocBike.org.