Cyclists raise £1m for Wigan and Leigh Hospice

Wigan and Leigh Hospice (WLH) estimates it has reached the £1m mark from two decades of the annual Manchester to Blackpool bike ride.

Hundreds of pedallers get in the saddle every year to brave the 63-mile route to the popular coastal resort to raise cash for the Hindley-based charity.

WLH said it was amazed by the consistency and level of support from Wigan and Leigh residents to get on their bikes for the hospice, with this year marking the 21st edition of the event.

Maxine Armstrong, fundraising and lottery manager, said: “It’s incredible to think that over the years our riders have helped us to raise £1m for the hospice.

“It just goes to show how important this event is to the hospice and I hope many of our supporters will join us again this year.

“It’s always a fantastic atmosphere and many of our riders join us again and again.”

The ride from the city to the seaside always attracts a huge field on two wheels and is well supported along the route.

As in previous years, those riding this year on July 8 will receive coach travel to the start line in Trafford, starting off at about 7am.

Riders don special T-shirts to show they are cycling for WLH and maintenance vehicles go up and down the route ensuring anyone who has a breakdown gets a helping hand.

The event provides a significant chunk of the massive amount of £3m WLH has to raise every year.