Although Buckingham Palace has declared it will be ‘business as usual’ come September 9th, the date when Her Majesty The Queen becomes the longest-reigning monarch in British history, the organisers of Northamptonshire’s favourite annual fundraising bike ride believe this auspicious achievement shouldn’t go unrecognised!
Which is why cyclists taking part in Cycle 4 Cynthia at Althorp just four days later on Sunday 13th September are being encouraged to wear something regal or fly a flag from their handlebars to mark the occasion and set a right royal fundraising record for Cynthia Spencer Hospice!
The Hospice’s Fundraising Manager John Helm says it’s a great way to celebrate the ride’s strong connections to the monarchy.
“The hospice is named after one of the late Queen Mother’s ladies-in-waiting and indeed the then Queen opened the facility in 1976,” he explained.
“Our Patron and generous host for the ride, the Earl Spencer, is of course the uncle and great-uncle of two future kings, while just two years ago Prince Harry sent a letter of support to those taking part, so it seems quite appropriate to say ‘well done’ to Her Majesty in this way!
“But of course we don’t want to stop any republicans from pedalling! This wonderful event is for all riders of any age and ability and we’re encouraging everyone to join us in the hope that we can top the record number of 1300 riders which took part last year!”
Along with Saints director of rugby Mallinder, Alex King and players Dylan Hartley and Sam Dickinson will leap into their saddles for the ride, while a 40-strong contingent from The Melbourne Arms at Duston is among the teams hoping to beat the impressive total of almost £64,000 raised in 2014.
Cycle 4 Cynthia, offering riders routes of 5, 25 and 50 miles, is at Althorp on Sunday 13th September, starting from 9am. Entry is £20 for adults, £10 for children and £50 for families with all monies raised from entry fees, sponsorship and sales of the limited edition C4C cycle top priced at £25 going to the Hospice.
More details, including downloadable entry and sponsorship forms and online registration, are now available at www.cycle4cynthia.co.uk while you can also follow the latest news on the ride on Facebook or call the Hospice on 01604 678088.
Riders can also register in person at Cynthia Spencer’s Day Hospice on Kettering Road between 10am and 12 noon on Saturday 12th September, or turn up on the day.
