It’s time to show your support as fundraisers get on their bikes for a worthwhile cause

The eighth annual Coast to Coast (CS2) Challenge, in aid of Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, will take place this Sunday, May 13, and you’re invited to cheer on the 600 cyclists taking part as they cross the finish line at West Bay.

The event, which is not a race, involves a challenging 54-mile cycle ride which starts at Watchet Harbour, Somerset, and ends at West Bay, following a scenic route through the Somerset and Dorset countryside. A staggered start will see the stronger cyclists set off first at 11am with the less experienced riders departing at 11.15am. A shorter 11-mile route starts at the Royal Oak public house in Drimpton at 2pm and also finishes at West Bay.

Last year’s event saw people of all ages and abilities take part, raising more than £74,000 for the lifesaving charity. With only 600 places available, the event sold out within five days of online registration being open.

Supporters will be able to encourage the Coast to Coast cyclists at the starting point, along the route or at the finishing line celebrations at East Beach car park in West Bay.

Bill Sivewright, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance chief executive officer, said: “Our Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge is a fantastic occasion and the atmosphere is incredible. It will certainly be an emotional day all round given the fact that some of those taking part include patients who have experienced the work of the air ambulance first hand. Others are cycling in memory of loved ones, as part of a team or simply want to challenge themselves and support our cause.

“We are extremely proud of this event; it is the only event that we organise ourselves. Every year it seems to get better and better and that is mainly due to the wonderful team of volunteers, members of the public and local businesses who help us with marshalling and keeping the cyclists safe. Our thanks go to the event sponsors and the various pit stop locations along the route. Without their help and support, we simply could not put on such a large-scale event.

“Finally, a very big thank you to all the cyclists taking part who are encouraging their friends and family to sponsor them. Let’s hope the weather stays fine and we raise as much as possible and make this the best Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge yet!”

For more information, visit www.dsairambulance.org.uk or call 01823 669604.

As well as individual sponsorship of the cyclists, the charity has set up two other ways in which donations can be made in support of the event. These can be made via the charity’s online fundraising page www.dsairambulance.org.uk/c2c/donate or by mobile phone by texting DSAA18 £5 (or any amount that you wish i.e. £1, £2, £10 etc.) to 70070.