Gear up for Chilterns Cycle Challenge fundraiser

The hospice is gearing up for its exhilarating Chilterns Cycle Challenge and is looking for people to fundraise for its vital Hospice at Home services.

The sponsored event, which starts and finishes in Aylesbury on Sunday, March 19, will offer a 35-mile or mammoth 75-mile route to choose from.

TV presenter and Bucks resident Fern Britton has taken part three times since the event was launched in 2011. Although she can’t make it this year, Fern has a message of encouragement for fellow cycling fans.

She said: “I’m delighted to support Rennie Grove’s Chilterns Cycle Challenge and can’t believe this is its seventh consecutive year! I feel privileged to have been involved right from the inception of this popular event and I’m so pleased to see it has gone from strength to strength. Its success is testament to the wonderful routes, which showcase some of our best local scenery; the on-the-day organisation, which is always excellent, and of course the cause itself.

“I’ve met some of the charity’s amazing nurses, who are clearly so passionate about their work and committed to giving patients the best possible care, whatever their circumstances. The money raised at each Chilterns Cycle Challenge helps these nurses do something wonderful: making it possible for patients with life-limiting illnesses to stay at home surrounded by the people and things they love.

“I’ve taken part three times and have always thoroughly enjoyed the experience. It’s both humbling and uplifting to talk to people along the way who are riding in memory of people who have been cared for by the charity. Everyone has nothing but praise for the work of the Rennie Grove nurses and I’m delighted to have been able to support this wonderful local cause. Please do sign up and take part if you can.”

Adult entry costs £21.50 for the 35 mile route and the 75 mile route costs £46.50. If you opt to fundraise for Rennie Grove you can enter for just £31.50. The entry fee includes a medal on completion, water along the route, feed stations, a fully signed and marshalled route, mechanical support on the day and fundraising support from our events team.

Last year the Chilterns Cycle Challenge attracted more than 500 participants and raised around £30,000 to support the charity’s nursing and support services for local patients with cancer and other life-limiting illness and their families. £36,000 funds one of the charity’s specialist hospice at home nurses for a year.

For further information and to sign up, visit www.renniegrove.org/chilternscycle