Cyclists across Hampshire have pedalled their way to raise vital funds for Wessex Heartbeat.
The sixth Wessex Heartbeat Cycle Sportive, which was sponsored by automotive group, Hendy, for the fifth year running, saw 68 riders take to the roads, to raise vital funds for the region’s leading heart charity.
A true community effort, a team of hardworking local volunteers, including members of Southampton Magna, New Forest and Bishop's Waltham Rotary Clubs, signed up to marshal the special fundraising route.
Local businesses also lent a hand, with Giant Store Southampton offering mechanical support and Hampshire drinks company Hildon providing water supplies.
Commencing and finishing in the grounds of Embley Park in Romsey, participants chose to take on a 40-mile route, or a more challenging 70-mile course.
Heading off in the glorious spring sunshine, cyclists travelled through Romsey over to Winchester, Stockbridge and Broughton where the 70- and 40-mile routes split. The longer route took riders over to Salisbury and the shorter route brought cyclists back to Romsey via East Tytherley.
Paul Murrells, Hendy new car sales director, took part in this year’s Cycle Sportive, and was very impressed with the annual event’s organisation.
He said: “Every element of this special fundraising event was brilliant – from the route and the directions to all the marshals, who not only made sure we were going the right way, but also gave us some vital encouragement. It was a great thing to be a part of, and it’s been wonderful to be able to raise funds for such a worthwhile charity.”
John Munro, CEO of Wessex Heartbeat, said: “Every year the Cycle Sportive gets bigger and better, and we would like to express our gratitude to all of those involved.
“Be it on the road or on a stationary bike, cycling is a fantastic way to keep your heart health in check, which makes the Cycle Sportive such a fitting way to raise money for Wessex Heartbeat.”
Money from the Cycle Sportive will go towards the MOTOmed Letto2 Arm and Leg Bike appeal.
The special equipment will be used exclusively in the CICU (Cardiac Intensive Care Unit) at Southampton General Hospital for cardiac surgical and cardiological patients to provide passive and active upper and lower limb exercises for both unconscious and conscious patients in bed or sitting out.
To find out more go to heartbeat.co.uk/Appeal/equipment-motomed-letto2-arm-and-leg-bike
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