A record entry of over 320 riders signed up for Stockport charity Seashell Trust’s cycling sportive and raised over £17,000.
Starting from the Seashell Trust campus in Cheadle Hulme, the cyclists from across the North West, set off on four different riders – a 50km around the Cheshire countryside; a more challenging 70km one which took in a few hills in the Derbyshire Peak District; a 100km ride explored some of the amazing scenery in Staffordshire; and, the lung-busting 170km route ventured round all three counties taking in 16 listed hill climbs.
Now a regular in the North West cycling calendar, the event is only possible thanks to the willing support of teams of volunteers who provide welcome food and drinks at the five feed-stations and help set up the event day beforehand.
Dominic Tinner, head of fundraising for Seashell Trust who, as a keen cyclist himself, established the event five years ago and designed the route, said: “We were taken aback by the number of entries this year.
“Cyclists are hardy souls and a bit of driving rain as the riders approached Flash, the highest village in England, didn’t dampen their enjoyment.”
Sponsorship from Beyond Corporate, supported by Ultimate Communications and MyHearing, ensures every penny from riders’ entry fees went to support Seashell’s work education and caring for profoundly disabled children and young people who have little or no verbal communication.
Next year’s Seashell Sportive takes place on Sunday, September 15, and Seashell also has 10 places for the Prudential Ride London on Sunday, August 4.
The charity is also planning a Cycle Switzerland event for September 2019.
Anyone who is interested should contact Dominic on 0161 610 0117 or email Dominic.tinner@seashelltrust.org.uk
