Woolton Hill mountaineer completes charity cycle despite tumble

Brave finish after climbing back in saddle

A Woolton Hill mountaineer who took a tumble during a 100-mile London charity cycle ride on Sunday bravely dusted himself off and carried on to the finish line.

Woolton Hill villagers Lee Farmer and his wife Nicola, joined 25,000 entrants and completed the Prudential RideLondon 100 – a 100-mile circular route from London to Surrey.

After setting off from the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, riders passed London landmarks before moving into stunning countryside, where they tackled leg-testing climbs in Surrey at Newlands Corner, Leith Hill and Box Hill, along a route made famous by the world’s best cyclists at the London 2012 Olympics.

Mr Farmer said: “It’s a truly spectacular event for all involved.”

The ride was not without mishap, however, and Mr Farmer required medical attention after being involved in a collision near Kingston Bridge about 25 miles into the ride.

“My front wheel caught the rear wheel of another bike and I came flying off,” he said.

“I escaped with cuts and bruises. The St John Ambulance medics patched me up, and I didn’t want to let our East Woodhay wellwishers and sponsors down so I carried on.”

The couple then received their competitors medals in Green Park, after finishing back in the capital.

This year’s conditions proved warm and dry for Mr Farmer, who last year completed the challenge in the wake of hurricane Bertha’s winds and heavy rain.

Mrs Farmer added: “I loved the challenge of cycling 100 miles. The warm weather made it very enjoyable and it was really great to see people of all ages and experience giving it a go.

“If anyone wants to ride with a friendly easy going group, then come along to Newbury Road Club.

“We meet at 9am every Sunday in Newbury’s Market Place, and cycle groups complete various distances from 20 miles up to 60 miles.”

Mr Farmer’s brother is affected by epilepsy and the couple’s efforts raised more than £500 for Epilepsy Society.

To make a donation, visit www.justgiving.com/LeeandNicola.