To mark its tenth year of helping vulnerable families in Ryedale a charity bike ride has gone virtual

Yorkshire Wolds Cycle Challenge was gearing up to celebrate its 10th and biggest year to date when, like many other events, it had to be cancelled due to coronavirus.

However, the team behind the event are not letting it stop them from raising vital funds for Ryedale Special Families and are going digital with the ‘Virtual 2020’ Yorkshire Wolds Cycle Challenge.

From Saturday July 4 to Friday July 31 people from across the region are being encouraged to get on their bike, enjoy the fabulous cycle routes and scenery our county has to offer as well as raising vital funds for a charity that’s vital to so many local families.

Robert Davies from the charity Ryedale Special Families, who launched the event back in 2011, explained: “Over the last ten years we’ve built a reputation as a friendly, all-inclusive event and the ‘Virtual 2020’ Yorkshire Wolds Cycle Challenge is exactly the same. It’s open to everyone.

“This isn’t a competition, race or sportive reserved for serious riders – it’s a fun fundraising event for riders of all ages and abilities. Entrants are encouraged to share their progress, and to join the community.”

Robert added: “Coronavirus has forced the cancellation of our usual 144-mile challenge, so we’ve gone digital. Participants can complete the distance however they want to and raise money to help children and young people with disabilities, illness and additional needs in North Yorkshire.

“Riders taking up the challenge need to cycle 144 miles (the distance of the original route) between Saturday July 4 and Friday July 31. They can split the distance however and wherever they want to, riding within the Government’s guidelines in place at the time of course.

“You can ride on your local roads, or even complete it on an exercise bike from home.

“Entry is free but we’re asking that riders set a fundraising goal of at least £50 – with all money going to Ryedale Special Families.

“Every penny raised by the challenge will go to support a fantastic, independent, Malton-based charity, Ryedale Special Families which is facing a shortfall of about £50,000 this year due to the impact of the coronavirus on fundraising.”

For more information visit www.yorkshirewoldscyclechallenge.org.uk.