DERBYSHIRE: DT’s Ashgate Hospice cycle ride on the road again

More than 60 wheelie big-hearted fundraisers rolled out on the 50mile ride last year and raised over £7,500 in pledges for Ashgate Hospice and this year the event, on Sunday, July 28, is also holding an additional shorter ride for more modest riders and families.

The longer route takes in lovely views, Chatsworth House and testing climbs to Sheldon and Stanton-in-the-Peak and riders will be treated to refreshments as they cross the finish line.

Ashgate Hospice fundraising chief Emily Evans said: “The DT’s first Flagg Challenge last year was fab. A big thanks went out to everyone who took part including all the volunteers and we look forward to seeing some of the same faces and many new ones during this year’s event.

“It was so popular last time that we thought we would introduce a smaller alternate route for more modest riders which gives families a chance to get in the saddle and join the fun.”

The hospice, which is dependent on donations, has helped seriously and terminally ill patients since October, 1988, thanks to donations and fundraising.

This year alone the hospice needs to raise about £3m towards its running costs, so the Derbyshire Times is not only helping to organise its second hospice cycle sportive, it has also launched an on-going £25,000 appeal running throughout the year with support from readers.

Last year’s cycling heroes included Oliver Snodden, 11, of Hasland, who raised about £1,500 in pledges and Ed Cooper who completed the Peak District route in under three hours.

Once anyone has decided to sign up for the challenge they will receive entry and sponsor forms and a map and can look forward to being named among a roll-of-honour in pre-event and post-event editions of the Derbyshire Times.

Entry costs £20 per rider and entry dates will soon be announced in the DT. For pre-entry enquiries call reporter Jon Cooper on (01246) 504524 / 07803 350 5731.

Those also wishing to back the DT appeal with donations or proceeds can contact Jon Cooper or email [email protected] and donations can be made at www.justgiving.com/DerbyshireTimes1 or by cheques to The Derbyshire Times’ Ashgate Hospice Appeal which can be posted to the hospice.

Derbyshire Times’ 50mile Flagg Challenge route;

START - Ashgate Hospice, along the B6150 to Newbold B6051.

B6051 to Cutthorpe B6050.

B6050 to Robin Hood pub/Moorside Farm A619 to Baslow.

A619 Pilsley/Handley Bottom to A6020 to Ashford-in-the-Water.

Go right towards Taddington, turn left up to Sheldon.

Sheldon to Chelmorton to Flagg.

To Monyash to Parsley Hay and along the Youlgreave route.

Long Rake (turn right) to Middleton.

Elton to Winster Crossroads. Take Bakewell directional route sign to Birchover.

Stanton in the Peak to Rowsley.

Go a little along the A6 to Beeley.

To Edensor to Baslow.

Back to the A619 to Robin Hood pub.

Avoid Cutthorpe turn-off and go straight to Old Brampton to Ashgate Hospice - FINISH.