We're calling on the county’s cyclists to get on their bikes to help St Margaret's continue caring for people facing life-limiting illnesses.
The Great Somerset Cycle returns on Sunday, March 29, with a choice of routes starting and finishing at our hospice hubs in Taunton and Yeovil.
The 2020 edition of the popular fundraising event will see participants tackle an easy 40-mile route from Yeovil to Taunton, a harder 40-mile route from Taunton to Yeovil involving more climbs, or an epic 80-mile circular route combining the two.
Entries are now open for the pedal-powered challenge, with places costing £25 for any distance. Participants are encouraged to raise sponsorship for St Margaret’s Hospice Care, which last year supported more than 4,900 people affected by life-limiting illnesses across Somerset.
More than 100 riders took part in last year’s Great Somerset Cycle, raising over £22,000.
Sonia Bateman, events fundraiser at St Margaret’s, said: “This will be our third Great Somerset Cycle. It’s a friendly, non-competitive ride and there’s always a warm welcome for our supporters when they cross the finish line.
“To make this year’s event as accessible as possible, we have a choice of routes, rated easy, hard or tough. The 40-mile routes will challenging enough for many people, while keen cyclists will enjoy the epic 80-mile circular route through the beautiful Somerset countryside.
“Not only is the Great Somerset Cycle a fun way to mark the start of British Summer Time, by taking part and raising sponsorship you’ll be doing your bit to make sure St Margaret’s can be there for your friends, family or neighbours when they need our support.”
The Great Somerset Cycle is once again proudly sponsored by Clarke Willmott solicitors and The Bicycle Chain. The event is open to riders aged 12 and over, though anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Cyclists will set off simultaneously from the Yeovil and Taunton hospices at 9am. Most of the ride is on quiet B-roads which will be marshalled for safety, with on course mechanical support to help in case of punctures. Refreshments will be available before and after the ride, with a water station at the halfway point.
For route details and to book your place, click here.