An annual charity bike ride sponsored by Masham brewery T&R Theakston Ltd has raised more than £3,000 for local, regional and national charities.
Almost 50 cyclists saddled up for the annual 27-mile Lower Dales Circle Charity Bike Ride, which takes in some of the region’s most stunning scenes – and a host of pubs en route!
For the last nine years the event had been organised by Chris Wade, from the Milbank Arms at Well, and Kris Stephenson, formerly of the Freemasons Arms at Nosterfield.
Amongst those to benefit from the ride in previous years include Great North Air Ambulance, Help For Heroes, Yorkshire Cancer Research and North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust.
This year the ride began and ended at Theakston’s own Black Bull In Paradise wout the participants travelling through Thornton Watlass, Bedale, Exelby, Burneston, Kirklington, Wath, West Tanfield, Nosterfield and Well on its route back to Masham, making pit stops at pubs along the way.
Chris said: Once again I would like to praise all those who took part and, as ever, thank Theakston’s for sponsoring the event.
The Lower Dales Circle Charity Bike Ride has taken place for the last nine years and always receives tremendous support.
This year, with the memories of Le Grand Depart still fresh in the mind, all of the 47 riders were extremely enthusiastic about taking part.
In addition to being good fun and not too much of a challenge, it raises valuable funds for a host of charities, all chosen by the riders.
Both organisers took part in the ride again this year, with Kris Stephenson – a former landlord of the Freemasons Arms in Nosterfield, completing the ride with a wooden cask – handcrafted by Theakston’s cooper Jonathan Manby – strapped to his back.
T&R Theakston Ltd Executive Director Simon Theakston said: We are delighted to be associated with this annual fund raising event.
Chris is to be congratulated for kick-starting the bike ride back in 2006, which, over the last nine years, has raised in the region of £50,000.
I have participated in a number of previous cycles, and I’ll admit one of the most enjoyable aspects is being handed a glass of Theakston’s ale at the finishing line!
A presentation for cyclists and beneficiaries will be held later in the year
