Pedal power sees fund-raiser pass £100,000 mark
A CHARITY cycling troop have smashed through the £66,000 target on the first day of a virtual ride to Castle Donington.
Last month, the Heavy Metal Truants announced that their eighth annual fund-raising ride from London to the hallowed grounds of Castle Donington for Download Festival, would go ahead virtually.
The global metal community came together, showing a loyal solidarity truly unique to the genre.
Almost 500 people worldwide have signed up to this year’s ‘The Eighth Of Spades virtual ride’ from 34 countries including Australia, Canada, America, Mexico, South Africa, France, Italy and Russia among many more.
The initial target of £66,666 was sped past by the end of the first day riding which prompted another target of £100,000 to be set - which has now also been surpassed.
A spokesperson said: “This is a real proud moment for the metal community who repeatedly show their power to come together and surpass expectations.
“The Truants are also excited to have members of Thunder, Pendulum, Architects and Paradise Lost joining the ride.
“The charity cycling group, founded in 2013 by ex-Metal Hammer editor in chief Alexander Milas and Iron Maiden Manager Rod Smallwood, raise money for children’s charities through events, memorabilia auctions and their annual charity cycle ride from London to Download Festival.
“To date, the Heavy Metal Truants have raised £681,500 for Teenage Cancer Trust, Nordoff Robbins and Childline. This year they welcome the addition of Save The Children as an international charity beneficiary.”
‘The Eighth Of Spades virtual ride’ will be the cycling warrior’s eighth annual pilgrimage of completing the 175-miles from London to the Download Festival site at Donington.
The Heavy Metal Truants have enjoyed the backing and personal support of a tremendous range of artists over the years, including Iron Maiden, The Who, Slipknot, Saxon, Thin Lizzy, Metallica, KISS, Def Leppard, and Queen among many others.
For more information visit https://heavymetaltruants.com/