Shropshire charity cyclists set off for Brussels
Raising money for cystic fibrosis – that is the aim of a 300 mile bike ride planned by two ardent Shropshire charity supporters which will take them through three countries visiting three capital cities in Europe.
Wellington firefighter Nick Herbert (47) and brother-in-law Keith Roberts (56), a member of Shropshire and Wrekin Fire Authority, are due to set off on the London to Brussels expedition of a European charity cycling challenge today.
Keith, who is Shrewsbury’s deputy mayor, and Nick, a watch manager with Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service, who lives in Shrewsbury, both hope to raise more than £3,500 with four days in the saddle cycling up to 80 miles each day.
“We are pleased to be able to take part to raise money for such a worthy cause,” said Keith, a retired police officer.
They have both raised thousands of pounds for cystic fibrosis in support of a member of their family who has the condition.
Nick and wife Sally have helped to organise Christmas balls at the Lord Hill Hotel in Shrewsbury to raise thousands of pounds for the charity. The family has also organised sales, coffee mornings and other events to raise funds.
The cycling duo will set off with other bike riders from across the UK on the 80 mile trip from London to Harwich before taking the overnight ferry to the Hook of Holland. A 60 mile cycle ride takes them to Amsterdam for an overnight stop before continuing another 80 miles to Breda.
The UK cycling contingent will meet together just outside Brussels before riding into the historic Belgian capital together to gather at the Grand Place on September 17.
“Everyone is raising money for their own good cause and it will be a great experience. We hope to raise a lot of money for our charity,” said Nick.
The brothers-in-law will enjoy a celebratory meal in Brussels before taking a more comfortable journey home aboard the Eurostar back to London.
