Cyclists signing up to help Each

10 March 2010

SCORES of people have taken advantage of the warmer weather and already signed up for this year's sponsored cycle ride in aid of life threatened youngsters.

Cyclists across the region will take part in the EDP Ride for Life in May, in aid of East Anglia's Children's Hospices, and many have already slipped into the saddle to begun to fundraise.

But what are some of the best ways to raise as much money as possible? And exactly how much training is needed before the big day?

For those who prefer to raise funds on two feet rather than on a saddle there will also be three and nine mile walking routes available.

While most will give generously, there are a few sneaky tips to encourage people to dig a little deeper.

Getting a few generous sponsors to begin with means people signing up afterwards can see they are helping towards a good total.

Think about fancy dress. People tend to pay more if you are going to be making a fool of yourself.

Set up a free webpage to collect sponsor money online. To do so, go to www.justgiving.com/each.

Could friends and family take the sponsorship form to their place of work?

Some employees will match fund any money raised for charity.

Gift aid your sponsorships if the donators are UK taxpayers.

Scores of people are expected to turn out on May 16 at Santon Downham in Thetford Forest for a variety of cycle rides ranging from 10 to 35 miles with on and off road routes available.

For those who prefer to raise funds on two feet rather than on a saddle there will also be three and nine mile walking routes available.

Preparation is key to the event cyclists are advised to make sure they have a basic level of fitness and eat and exercise sensibly in the run up to the ride.

One of the organisers of the event, David Baker, said: “We do find a lot of casual cyclists, because of the nature of the event, will get their bike out of the shed the day before and hop on.

“It can spoil the day if they don't have the fitness and are not prepared and we don't want that. We want people to enjoy themselves and come back again.”

People are advised to take regular cardiovascular exercise such as jogging off road to protect wear and tear on bones, or cycling, coupled with sensible stretches. Bikes should also be checked to make sure all gears are working, cables are not split and frames not cracked, saddles are comfortable, tyres have enough tread, wheel spokes are not broken and the chain is lubricated.



EACH is a registered charity which supports families who care for children with life-threatening conditions and complex healthcare needs.

It provides care and support for children and their families in their own homes, as well as at the charity's hospices in Quidenham in Norfolk, Milton in Cambridgeshire and Ipswich in Suffolk, and relies on public support for the majority of its required income, about £5.8m per year.

Services include end of life care and bereavement support, as well as specialist play and music therapy, and more practical help, advice and information, including a 24-hour telephone support and advice. EACH also holds annual memory days.

People can take part in a variety of cycle rides at this year's EDP Ride for Life event, ranging from 10 to 35 miles. For those who prefer to raise money on two feet rather than on a saddle there will also be three and nine-mile walking routes available.

Scores of people are expected to turn out to the event at Santon Downham in Thetford Forest, on May 16, and entry fees are;

Cyclists - adults, £10; children 16 years and under, £5; family ticket (maximum of two adults and two children aged 16 and under), £18; team (minimum of four adults), £8 per person.

Walkers - adults, £6; children from five to 16, £4; children under five, free.

Discounted fees are available by entering online at www.each.org,uk/rideforlife.

For more information about EACH, visit the website at www.each.org.uk, or call 01223 205180.