Bon voyage for local cyclists' challenge to Paris
The group is raising money for local charity Swings and Smiles during the 210 mile journey
FIVE cyclists from West Berkshire Council set off on a gruelling cycle ride to Paris to raise money for a local charity yesterday (Thursday).
The cyclists are Council Leader, Graham Jones (Con, Lambourn), David Appleton, head of cultural services; Paul Hendry, countryside manager; Duncan Coe, archaeological officer; and Phil Mitchell from Trading Standards.
They will be joined by a support vehicle provided by vice chairman of the West Berkshire Council, Adrian Edwards (Con, Falkland), in England and Maureen Appleton in France.
The group set off from Newbury's Clock Tower at 7am yesterday and arrived at the Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth by late morning where they were greeted by the town's Lord Mayor, Cheryl Buggy.
The 210-mile cycle ride is due to be completed at the Eiffel Tower today.
The challenge was organised to raise money for local charity Swings and Smiles, whose aim is to build a recreational facility in West Berkshire for special needs children.
Founder of the charity, Sian Cook said: “Most children take bike riding for granted. We would love to be able to buy the special equipment needed for those unable to use regular bikes, and I'm delighted at the support of this team."
To sponsor the group, who have already raised more than £2,300 for the charity, click on the link below.