On the first Sunday of September, hundreds of cyclists once again saddled up for the biggest cycling event in South Cumbria. It could easily be the peloton in the Tour de France, until you realise that many in the field are under four feet tall or riding on the back of dad’s bike. This is the Tour de Furness – not so much the world’s toughest cycle race, but more a nice leisurely ride for all the family.
Since the first event was organised in 1995 by local cyclist Bill Bartlett, the charity ride has raised thousands for St Mary’s and other good causes. Each year it has grown, and more than 400 riders lined up at Roose Conservative Club, in Barrow, on September 5 for this year’s event.
£7500 was raised for St Mary's Hospice at this year’s event. This fantastic amount was presented to Zoe Guest, Funding & Operations Manager, by members of the Furness Rotary who are the race organisers. A very big thank you goes out to Event coordinator Bill Nickson, and the team from the Rotary Club of Furness. It has become a major event and St Mary’s cannot thank them enough for all their support.
