Thousands raised for Stars Appeal by group cycle from Wiltshire to Devon
The Unlikely Cyclists are pedalling 100 miles
A group of intrepid cyclists are pedalling their way from Wiltshire to Devon today (Thursday 13th July) to raise money for Salisbury District Hospital charity Stars Appeal.
The Unlikely Cyclists, led by William Warden, have already raised over £25,000 for the charity.
He was inspired to take on the fundraising challenge following the treatment his wife Sarah received at Salisbury District Hospital after being diagnosed with breast cancer.
Her care on the Breast Unit was funded by donations to the Stars Appeal.
Eureka Moment
William spoke of having a "Eureka moment" while sitting in the hospital with his wife.
"They have a list of people there who have raised or donated money to get the unit there and I felt I would like to do something to help," he said, "I had a “Eureka moment” - a group of friends are all going to Devon in July for a clay shoot and I will cycle there and raise a few pounds on the way."
Most thought his plan was "bonkers" but a few friends chose to join William's cause, bringing together 'The Unlikely Cyclists'.
"Raising money for a local hospital and cancer treatment must be one of the most gratifying causes as we all get older and there are several health battles going on within the team, but this seems only to drive everyone a little harder,” Williams added.
The group, which comprises 12 people, whose's ages range from under 30 to in their 70s, agree it will be hard work. The cycle will be broken down over the course of two days.
William said there is one part he knows will be a "slog".
"The uphill part from Exeter to Dartmoor will be a hard slog on day two."
Sarah said it is 'humbling' to see the effort people are putting in to support the Hospital: “Seeing “The Unlikely Cyclists “peddling off on training runs and coming back slightly less exhausted each week leaves me very humbled that they are prepared to give up their time, which we all are short of, to help raise funds.”
How Stars Appeal supports cancer patients in Salisbury
While the Stars Appeal funds many projects across the hospital, they've done a lot for cancer patients.
Their funding allows for free aromatherapy sessions, headwear for patients who lose their hair, free drinks for chemotherapy and oncology outpatients and prehabilitation programme, which offers one-to-one support to help patients prepare for surgery and treatment.
Helena Sinclair, of the Stars Appeal, said:
“We want to wish William and the Unlikely Cyclists the best of luck with their cycling challenge. They have raised an incredible amount so far which will support projects making a difference to patients at Salisbury Hospital.”
You can make a donation through the group's JustGiving page here.