The European roads await for two teams of Bedford-based cyclists this September, as the ‘Extra Mile’ challenge sees seven individuals take on a 500-mile trek across three different countries in aid of two charities.
The cycling charity challenge takes place over three days from 19 September and will be raising much needed funds for two good causes with local connections.
You can donate to this mammoth cause by following the fundraising link here.
75% of the funds ‘The Spokesmen’ teams raise will be split between Bedford-based Community Interest Company, Food etc which helps empower people to make better food choices and cholangiocarcinoma charity, AMMF.
Cholangiocarcinoma is a form of bile duct cancer, with AMMF the only UK-based charity tackling to raise awareness and research funds.
The ‘Extra Mile’ event has been running since 2003, started by the Rotary Clubs of Bedford Park and Milton Keynes Grand Union to organise cycling events to raise money for various charities.
This year the team will be tackling the ‘£2m Swiss’ Challenge, beginning at their hotel base in the north-eastern French city of Metz, while also visiting countries such as France, Germany, Switzerland and Luxembourg as well as the beautiful surroundings of the Black Forest.
‘The Spokesmen’ teams, comprising of Tim O’Leary, Manfred Saenger, Jon Ross, Lawrence O’Leary, Russell Smith, Richard Stidolph and Patrick Brewster have already raised around £40,000 for a range of charities by cycling more than 10,000 miles since they began in 2006.
“We are keen to support charities that mean something to us as a team,” said Manfred Saenger.
“Food etc is a local organisation, supporting local communities and AMMF is looking to reduce the incidence of bile duct cancer, a little known about disease that in the UK alone affects thousands of people annually, with more diagnoses over the last few years,” he added.
Food etc Founder and Director, Julie Clay added: “We are very grateful that this amazing group have selected us to receive part of their fundraising. We wish them all the best for this gruelling challenge and will be with them in spirit if not on saddles!”
The remaining 25% of funds raised will be shared between the charities supported by the event organisers, the Rotary Clubs of Bedford Park and Milton Keynes Grand Union.
These include Citizens Advice Bedford, Willen Hospice and Thames Valley Air Ambulance, with all of the gift aid going to the trust funds of the two organising Rotary Clubs.
You can donate to the grand total by following the fundraising link here.
