Sunday 4th July was the annual Manchester to Blackpool Bike Ride and this year a record 392 riders took part in aid of Wigan & Leigh Hospice.There were people of all skills and abilities who rode for us, many of whom have their own reasons for doing so.
On the day before, around 220 of the entrants loaded their bikes on to lorries that were kindly supplied by Wincanton Distribution, Co-operative Society and ‘Self Pick’ (Hindley) for transportation to the start in Manchester.
Early, on the big day, 3 double-decker buses, sponsored by Co-operative Funeral Services, left Wigan to re-unite the riders with their bikes; and to join a further 250 Hospice riders who made their own way there.
A bright sunny start saw the intrepid voyagers set off.Hospice refreshments stops were available en-route, along with back-up Hospice support vehicles.By the time the majority were approaching the seaside, a howling gale was blowing along Lytham, St. Annes and Blackpool seafronts.The first torrential downpour for months added to the entertainment.
Despite the best efforts of the British weather, it was a very enjoyable and successful day, with a record number of Hospice riders taking part this year.
As special thank you must go to the several ‘young’ people who undertook the challenge. We are very grateful for the effort and determination they showed.
One particular young man, Ciaran Lillis of Lowton, said he wanted to ride in support of the Hospice because his grandad died at the Hospice in March this year.Despite being told by his mum and dad it was a long way, this amazing 8 year old insisted he would do it; saying “I can only do my best for Grandad” – and he did - by completing the 62 mile ride!
THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO TOOK PART
IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO, PLEASE FORWARD YOUR SPONSORSHIP MONIES TO THE HOSPICE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
