The cyclists set off from the market place in Hungerford on Sunday 7 July, and are one their way in fine summer weather to Ligueil, Hungerford's twin town in the Loire Valley in Fance.This charity event is to help us raise funds for some very worthwhile charities on the way, including the "End Polio Now" and the "Bruce Trust" barges for disadvantaged people.This cycle challenge is organised by "Wheels for Rotary" and supported by the Hungerford Rotary Club.
Norman Sinclair-Baines, one of the support team, describes the experience:"The tour started with a great send-off from Hungerford Rotarians, the Twinning Committee and the Bruce family. The five cyclists headed off towards Portsmouth, touching base with the support crew at Alresford on the way.Once on the ferry, bunks were allocated and we all bedded down for the night.On reaching St. Malo, we rendez-vous ed at the railway station as the cyclists had to get to the real start of their French trip, Rennes. From Rennes we cycled to Angers, where we stayed at the riverside Ibis Hotel. Next day was from Angers to Ligueil but we were met at Montsoreau by cyclistes from Ligueil who rode the last 20 or so miles with us.The reception at Ligueil was superb. The Twinning Committee met us with aperitifs and nibbles. We were allocated hosts and went home with them to prepare ourselves for a grand BBQ where the wine flowed and a good time was had by all.Next morning, early, we set off home via Argentan. There had been a mix-up with hotels but the result was a fabulous small hotel with a Michelin-quality restaurant.The last day in France was spent getting to the Pegasus Bridge at Ouistreham and then onto the port at Caen.Off the ferry on Saturday morning at Portsmouth and to Hungerford via Alresford, and Newbury. We were met by the same crowd who saw us off and were feted with snacks and drinks to celebrate our return. Luckily throughout the whole trip the only technical problems we encountered were broken spokes in 2 wheels but these were swiftly dealt with by the excellent support team.We are grateful to Tesco's support for the supply of 18kg of bananas, a large box of energy bars and an almost unlimited supply of drinking water."The event has already raised over £2,000 - and we are hopeful for more to come!.
more Hungerford Rotary Club presents a cheque for £250
more The two student from the John O’Gaunt school, who were sponsored by our club for a working visit to Ghana.
more Hungerford Rotary gives about £12-15,000 to charity each year
more The Club's 200 club raises £2,250 for Brighter Futures
more Hungerford Rotary Club gave a donation of £500 to help with the building and equipping of the only Children's Hospice in Berkshire
more Hungerford Rotarians help deliver Christmas parcels to the over 80's in the area.
more Hungerford Rotary donates to ICE, a local group supporting parents and children with special educational needs.
more Club President Annabel King presented the Rotary Sports Cups.