With just over two months to go to this year’s Ribble Valley Ride on Sunday 9 June, the organisers found themselves with a big problem when The Fell Bike and Tri Superstore, their Start-Finish venue for the last three years, decided they had to close. But within a week of the news, the event was rescued when Hanson Cement offered the use of their site and Training Building. Event Organiser, Bill Honeywell, said “Last year we had over 500 entrants and over the last five years the Ribble Valley Ride has raised almost £45,000 for the Rosemere Cancer Foundation and other deserving charities. So when we lost our HQ venue we knew we had to act quickly and we are so grateful to Hanson Cement for their help and enthusiasm in providing excellent alternative premises.” Gary Young, site manager of Hanson Cement Clitheroe, confirmed the move, saying “We were pleased to be able to help this well-respected event and in doing so put something back into the local community. We’ll be working with the organisers to ensure another well-supported, safe event for hundreds of cyclists.”
The Ride enjoyed a further boost when Applethwaite Homes, part of the Eric Wright Group, pledged financial support which means that Rosemere and other charities will benefit even more. Eric Wright Civil Engineering were the main contractor for the new Pendle Road roundabout and Applethwaite are currently building 34 bungalows for the over-55s off Peel Park Avenue in Clitheroe. Managing Director for Applethwaite Homes, Colin Hetherington, said “We’re delighted to support this excellent local event which helps keep people fit whilst also supporting vital charities too”.
The Ribble Valley Ride also supports Dan’s Trust and Prostate Cancer UK, and is also sponsored by Envair, pharmaceutical and laboratory clean air specialists. For more details including how to enter, visit www.ribblevalleyride.org