Get pedalling to support the Railway Children

Cyclists have the chance to support the Railway Children charity on June 10, by taking part in the Great Rail Bike Off.

The charity’s latest challenge has been organised in association with Young Rail Professionals. The 100-mile event starts in London and passes through key railway locations before finishing in Coventry, where ‘welcome home’ refreshments will be available at Network Rail’s Westwood Development Centre.

Entrants will receive full support from start to finish. There will be signage, refreshment stops, as well as medical and mechanical support. A medal is available at the finish.

The event is open to solo riders and teams, with both experienced cyclists and amateurs welcome. It can be entered as an individual or as a four-person relay where each person rides a leg. Organisers said a support vehicle and driver will be required to transport each member of the team to and from relay points.

“This will be a unique experience offering a wide range of riders, from dedicated racers to leisure cyclists, the chance to challenge themselves on a brand new route,” said Katie Mason, Events Manager at Railway Children.

“We are grateful for the invaluable support from event sponsor Porterbrook, who will be helping us to maximise funds raised to go directly to help children at risk on the streets in India, East Africa and the UK.”

Every mile cycled will raise funds for projects including providing shelter, food and clothing. Medical supplies, education and counselling will also be funded by money raised.

“We are delighted to be headline sponsor of this exciting new cycling event, which will be open to all abilities, and we look forward to entering a team,” said Zena Dent, Product Development Director at Porterbrook.

Every cyclist who raises more than £500 receives a yellow jersey from the charity. The individual and the business relay team that raises the most money will win the Great Rail Bike Off trophy.

Repatriation tickets at a cost of £12 per bike and £10 per person are available to transport the rider and their bike back from the finish (Coventry) to the start area (Twickenham). These can be booked when registering.

To register for the Great Rail Bike Off in aid of Railway Children, go to www.railwaychildren.org. uk/grbo. Contact Katie Mason at 01270 757596, email: k.mason@ railwaychildren.org.uk.