MORE than 300 hospice supporters cycled in the memory of a loved one or just for fun as St Helena’s fifth annual cycle ride took off around Dedham.

Cyclists of all ages and abilities enjoyed gorgeous autumnal weather as they cycled between ten and 75 miles, all starting and finishing at Monks Farm.

The new route was not only scenic, but poignant as it travelled through the areas the hospice provides care.

Lisa Chenery, events fundraiser, thanked everyone who took part adding: “A special thank you goes to our wonderful volunteers for giving up their time to help make the event a success.

“We couldn’t have done it without them, particularly our volunteer marshals.

Gazette:

Frankie Dowie ad Lauren Oldfield took in the challenge together

“We’re also extremely grateful to all of the companies who helped make the event possible by donating their goods or services including Tesco Highwoods, Dedham Co-Op and Eat Natural for donating all the refreshments for the day.

“Fisher Jones Greenwood sponsored the event and I also want to thank the landowners, Julian from Cycle Tech and Colchester Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Clinic.”

Gazette:

Anna Triolo is pretty in pink

The hospice is now collecting money raised and cyclists can take their sponsorship money or send a cheque to the Fundraising Office, 1 – 4 The Atrium, Phoenix Square, Colchester, or pay over the phone by credit or debit card on 01206 931468.

Visit sthelenahospice.org.uk for future fundraising events.