Cyclists gear up for a summer challenge to support older people

Following the resounding success of last year’s inaugural ride, Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin is back in the saddle and inviting cycling enthusiasts of all abilities to take part in an exciting charity bike ride this summer.

The announcement was made at a special launch event held at Shrewsbury Town Football Club on Friday 29th May, where supporters, partners, and local cycling champions gathered to celebrate the return of this feel-good fundraising challenge.

Cyclists are now being encouraged to sign up and start collecting sponsorship for a scenic 30-mile route around Shrewsbury and the surrounding countryside. Setting off from the football club, participants can expect a rewarding journey filled with camaraderie, fresh air, and a shared purpose.

The event will take place on Sunday 19th July from 10.00am – 1.00pm. An entry fee of just £15, includes a place on the ride and a well-earned hot drink and slice of cake at the finish line.

Participants are encouraged to raise between £50–£75 each, with the ambitious goal of surpassing the impressive £2,400 raised in 2025.

Emma Wilde, Interim Head of Wellbeing & Friendship Services at Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin, said: “Every penny we raise will support essential services for older people across Shropshire, helping them stay independent, connected, and supported in later life. This cycling challenge is a key part of our ‘Act Now Age Better’ campaign which inspires people to get active and boost their mental and physical wellbeing whilst making a real difference to their community.”

Added Emma: “We would like to publicly thank Shrewsbury Town Football Club for supporting this event and for offering their ground as a starting point for the cycle ride.”

The launch event brought together a wide range of local supporters, including representatives from Shropshire Council Public Health Department, Cycling UK Shropshire, Paramount Cycle Club, Shropshire Cycle Hub, Sustrans Shropshire, Cycling4All, and Shrewsbury Town Council.

Also lending support - and planning to take part - is the newly appointed Mayor of Shrewsbury, Cllr Bernie Bentick who was a significant fundraiser for the event last year.

He said: “Along with friends, neighbours and local cycling groups, I’m fundraising again this year for Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin in my Shrewsbury Mayoral year, as they celebrate their 76th anniversary. Their mission to combat loneliness among local older people is close to my heart because of the effects of poor mental and physical health and sometimes premature death, in those who have no-one to turn to.”

Continued Cllr Bentick: “I'm also keen to encourage older people to start or resume cycling to maintain their physical and mental health, to choose Active Travel ways of getting around Shrewsbury and Shropshire and to help the climate change crisis by leaving their cars at home for short journeys. There are new designs of bike for all abilities, and I hope that owners of this type of bicycle will join us for the event. Participants can use either a standard or a hybrid electric assisted bike to ensure that we have fun as it’s not a race.”

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a new personal challenge, this event promises a fantastic day out for a great cause. Gather your friends, join the ride, and significantly help improve the lives older people in Shropshire.

For more information, including route details and registration, visit the Eventbrite page.

If you are a local business that would like to support the event, please get in touch with the charity or Cllr Bentick.