A CHARITABLE cycling club has been given the power to pedal the length of the UK thanks to the backing of a family run motor dealership.
Hummersknott Academy Cycling Club will take on the 1,000 mile sponsored challenge, from Lands End to John O’Groats, to help raise funds for St Teresa’s Hospice, Darlington.
Helping the team to motor the 1,000 mile journey is Darlington Vauxhall dealership Sherwoods, which has provided the riders with a specially sign written support vehicle to help carry essential supplies during the ride.
Hummersknott Cycling Club team leader Gary Morely said: “This is the third time since 2009 that Sherwoods have backed our challenge by lending us a vital back up vehicle, free of charge, to help support our fundraising ride.
“It is fantastic that Sherwoods invests so much in the young people of Darlington, not just in our school but across the whole town. They really set the benchmark for local businesses by getting involved in supporting the local community.”
The ride, which has been two years in the planning, will see a team of novice riders, aged from 12 to 15 and school support staff, cycle between 60 to 80 miles a day stopping off at army camps and youth hostels in Penzance, Cheddar and Carlisle. They are expected to reach their goal’s end on August 4.
“Although our riders are pretty new to the sport they have been training hard for this ride for almost 24 months,” said Gary.
“We have been riding every Saturday, racing at Croft on a Tuesday evening and having gym sessions every Thursday night.
“They need to be physically fit as it is a gruelling challenge but it will also be something that they will remember for the rest of their lives.”
Managing director of Sherwoods, and president of St Teresa’s Hospice, Alasdair MacConachie added: “Sherwoods was delighted to be able to help Hummersknott Academy Cycling Club once again.
“This sponsored event is for the most worthy cause in Darlington and we are always happy to help and support young people in their community projects. “The money that the young cyclists are intending to raise will really benefit the wonderful work at St Teresa’s.
