A popular charity cycling event organised by the Ripon Rotary Club is set to return for its sixth year.
Taking place on Saturday 9th May, the annual bike ride will see riders complete a circular 100km route starting at Bishop Monkton and travelling through the countryside of the Vale of York.
The event is ccessible and non-competitive, and open to cyclists of varying abilities.
An entry fee of £50 applies, with all proceeds supporting charities backed by the Rotary Club, including Yorkshire Air Ambulance, Dementia Forward and Saint Michael’s Hospice, alongside other smaller local organisations.
Last year’s ride attracted 253 participants and raised £11,000 for its charity partners.
David Wells, of the steering committee at Rotary Club of Ripon, said:
“On behalf of the members of the Rotary Club, we sincerely appreciate Specsavers' continued support and hope to increase the number of cyclists participating this year.
“Many riders enjoy that it is not across challenging terrain, it is not a race, and of course, every entry goes towards supporting a selection of incredible charities that help not only our local community but also those around Yorkshire.
“We can’t wait to welcome everyone and aim to surpass last year's figure.
“Remember, when you finish the bike ride, you’ll also have the chance to eat cake at the finish - and maybe even sample a pint of Saddlesore.”
Alongside the return of the ride itself, Specsavers in Ripon has confirmed it will continue its sponsorship of the event for a sixth consecutive year.
The local opticians, based in Market Place, has been a long-term supporter of the initiative, with its optometrist director Katherine Friis also set to take part in the 62-mile route for the second year running.
Katherine Friis, optometrist director at Ripon's Specsavers, said:
“We’re excited to be sponsoring the wonderful cycling event that the fantastic volunteers at Ripon’s Rotary Club organise every year.
“It’s an important date in our community’s social calendar, and it provides a range of charities with the funds they need to continue the amazing work they do for people across Yorkshire.
“We were absolutely astounded when we found out the last event raised £11,000 - here's to smashing that figure this year
“For the second year running, I’ll be jumping on my bike and joining the event – let’s hope the weather is on our side.
“It’s such an amazing way to see the beautiful countryside surrounding Ripon, and I’m hoping to get a few more team members involved – or at least cheer from the sidelines.”
Further information about the event and how to take part is available at www.riponrotarybikeride.org.
Details about services at Specsavers Ripon can be found at www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/ripon or by calling 01765 694 777.
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