On 22nd August, a local family and friend are undertaking an epic challenge of cycling 125 miles twice, from Chilcompton to Croyde in Devon and then back. If 125 miles one way wasn’t far enough, the riders have set themselves the challenge of riding all the way back again a few days later, all in aid of Diabetes UK, a charity close to their hearts.

“We decided to raise money for this fantastic charity as it affects so many people. We want to promote more awareness of the disease, whilst also raising vital funds to help them continue their research and support those who are affected,” said Damien, the

organiser.

Damien has also organised several charity rides in the past few years. Their most

recent saw the team cycle over 190 miles from Radstock to Tenby two years ago in wind, rain and storms, to raise money for Kidney Research UK. The group, however, kept riding and finished the ride in great time. An amazing achievement for all involved. They raised just under £1,800.

This year’s team is made up again of Damien McCutcheon, Chris Anstey (Damien’s

father-in-law) and Connor Anstey (brother-in-law), who are all from Chilcompton, Jeremy Appleyard (wife’s uncle), who is from Midsomer Norton and for the first time, a family friend, Darrin King, from Peasedown St John, will be joining them. The

youngest rider, Connor, is just seventeen-years-old.

Damien said: “A close friend of mine’s little girl was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes a few years ago, when she was very small and it broke my heart to see what she and her family had to go through.

“They have had ups and downs, but have all been so strong throughout and I

decided that this year, I would like to raise money to support the work of Diabetes UK, in the hope that one day they can find a cure.

“Chris, Connor and Jer have supported me with my previous rides and when I asked them about my plans for this year’s ride, they were of course happy to accompany me again. It is a real challenge and the boys have been training hard. Chris broke his hip (snapping his ball joint completely off) whilst out cycling back in August 2012 and we all thought he would never be able to ride again, but since then, he has been out on many bike rides with me and completed the Radstock to Tenby Charity Ride just two years ago!

“We know money is tight for everyone and there are lots of fundraising events

taking place all the time, but we would love to raise as much money as we can for the charity and are asking for anyone who would be able to donate – big or small – to visit our Just Giving Page: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ride4diabetes”