Cancer charity cycle challenge from Colchester to Manchester

The Three Chesters Cycle Challenge will see fundraisers cycle from Colchester to Manchester via Chesterfield in a four-day trip in support of the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity.

The challenge, which will take place this June, came about during lockdown when Steve Sutton, 44, took up cycling again and planned the 260, mile route.

Having enjoyed the route from Colchester to Manchester, Steve, from Colchester, wanted other people to share his experience.

“I love cycling,” said Steve. “And I’m passionate about encouraging others to get out on a bicycle.

“It’s not about getting from A to B as quickly as possible on two wheels.

“I am conscious that participants get the most out of the rides and pedal at a pace that suits them.”

Throughout January and February, Steve took groups of cyclists with different abilities on 20, 30 and 40-mile rides around the quieter lanes and backroads of north Essex and Suffolk.

Each of the rides departed from and returned to the Northern Gateway Sports Centre in Colchester.

Cyclist who were eager to participate in the Three Chesters Cycle Challenge have also used longer rides as a training opportunity.

Caroline Foster, 53, of Colchester, said: “Over the last couple of years I have done a lot of cycling by myself because I don’t feel confident enough to keep up with other cyclists belonging to clubs in the area.

“Going out with Steve has encouraged me to cycle further and to try different routes, and now I’m ready for a new challenge.

“When I discovered I could raise money for an excellent charity while taking part in the ride, I jumped at the chance.”

In return for a pledge to raise a minimum of £1,000 for the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity, participants’ event fees will also be met.

The charity was founded in 1991 to provide complementary therapies and counselling for patients with all types of cancer and at all stages.

For more information and dates, visit threechesterscyclechallenge.co.uk.