Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance is holding its 8th annual Coast to Coast (C2C) Cycle Challenge on Sunday 13^th May 2018 and is hoping that the public will come out in support of the 600 cyclists taking part.

The event, which is not a race, involves a challenging 54-mile cycle ride which starts at Watchet Harbour in the North and ends at West Bay in the South, following a wonderfully scenic route through the beautiful Somerset and Dorset countryside. A staggered start will see the stronger cyclists set off first at 11.00am with the less experienced riders departing at 11.15am. A shorter 11-mile route starts at the Royal Oak public house in Drimpton at 2.00pm and also finishes at West Bay.

Last year’s event saw people of all ages and abilities take part, raising over £74,000 (including Gift Aid) for the life-saving charity. With only 600 places available, it was no surprise that the event sold out within five days of on-line registration being open. 

This ever-popular event is renowned for being an emotional and inspiring day out for everyone involved. That’s no surprise given the fact that the cyclists include patients who have experienced the work of the air ambulance first-hand and those who take part in memory of a loved one. Others get involved as part of a team or simply want to challenge themselves and support the Charity in return.

Supporters will be able to encourage the Coast to Coast cyclists at the starting point, along the route or at the finishing line celebrations at East Beach Car Park in West Bay.

As well as individual sponsorship of the cyclists, the Charity has set up two other ways in which donations can be made in support of the event. These can be made via the Charity’s Online Fundraising Page: www.dsairambulance.org.uk/c2c/donate or by mobile phone by texting: DSAA18 £5 (or any amount that you wish i.e. £1, £2, £10 etc.) to 70070. Every penny raised really will make a big difference!

Bill Sivewright, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Chief Executive Officer said:

“Our Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge is a fantastic occasion and the atmosphere is incredible. It will certainly be an emotional day all round given the fact that some of those taking part include patients who have experienced the work of the air ambulance first hand. Others are cycling in memory of loved ones, as part of a team or simply want to challenge themselves and support our cause.

“We are extremely proud of this event; it is the only event that we organise ourselves. Every year it seems to get better and better and that is mainly due to the wonderful team of volunteers, members of the public and local businesses who help us with marshalling and keeping the cyclists safe. Our thanks go to the event sponsors and the various pit stop locations along the route. Without their help and support, we simply could not put on such a large-scale event.

“Finally, a very big thank you to all the cyclists taking part who are encouraging their friends and family to sponsor them.  Let’s hope the weather stays fine and we raise as much as possible and make this the best Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge yet!”