Cyclists tackle Way of the Roses

A group of friends from Bourne and surrounds are undertaking a tough cycle challenge later this year to raise funds for a local charity.

One of the riders, Danny Fowler, said the 16 cyclists would be tackling the 170 mile Way of the Roses coast to coast cycle route between Morecambe and Bridlington on September 21 and 22.

The highly popular route passes through historic cities York and Lancaster, and lesser known gems such as Settle, Pateley Bridge and Ripon.

Danny said they were doing the ride to raise money for St Barnabas Hospice.

Eight of the group are employees at Warners Midlands and the company has this year chosen St Barnabas as its charity.

Warners has partnered with the Bourne and Morton Cycling Club to raise funds for the hospice.

Danny said they would complete the 170 mile route over two days.

“The first day will see us cycle from Morecambe to Ripon, a distance of 75 miles,” he said.

“It’s a shorter distance than day two, but includes 7,000ft of climbing.”

On day two the team will cycle the remaining 95 miles from Ripon to Bridlington.

“We plan to start at 8.30am on the Friday and finish by 5pm,” said Danny.

“We’ll start around the same time on Saturday and hope to finish by 6pm at the latest.

“You can’t always foresee what will happen on the road and if you’re going to have punctures.”

The group have set themselves a target of raising at least £4,000 for St Barnabas.

Based in Lincolnshire, the hospice is a local charity which every year supports more than 9,000 people across the county with a life limiting or terminal condition. To donate visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/bmcc-stbarnabashospice