Date: 18th July 2005
Pedal Power Sees Thousands Hit The Road on The Tenth Capital To Coast Charity Bike Ride
Leading fashion designer Jeff Banks donned his cycling jersey and joined over 1400 registered riders for the 10th anniversary of Norwood's Capital To Coast Bike Ride, which took place on Sunday July 17 th 2005. On a day of perfect sunshine cyclists worked overtime to complete the 60-mile charity challenge, which was sponsored by Condor Cycles , before spending the afternoon lazing by the sea in Hove. The event raised £200,000 for three leading children's charities - Norwood , Southern FM's Help A Local Child and The Down's Syndrome Association.
The Capital To Coast challenge attracts cyclists of all ages and abilities. Once again amongst the masses, were tandem teams of adults with learning disabilities, who live in Norwood run services, all of whom completed the course with a little bit of help from their non-disabled front seat riders.
Dedicated teams of marshals, mechanics, first-aiders and motorbike outriders lined the route ensuring that, as always, Capital to Coast ran smoothly. They supported the cyclists through every muscle-aching mile so that when the riders crossed the finish line on the Hove seafront, exhausted but exhilarated, they were all still smiling!
This is the first year that Jeff Banks has cycled the Capital to Coast Bike Ride. Speaking after completing the challenge, he said : "I was delighted to take part in the Capital To Coast ride. Cycling is a hobby of mine and this route was a pleasure to follow. I was also very happy to do my bit to help these three wonderful charities, who do so much great work for underprivileged children and families and those with learning disabilities."
Before reaching the final destination in Hove, riders had to conquer the dreaded Devil's Dyke, a steep incline that takes no prisoners. Once over the brow of this hill it was plain sailing, or pedalling, all the way through to the finish line on the Lawns. There, riders were met with rapturous applause, not to mention lots of food and drink! To help riders unwind Southern FM also provided music, turning the Lawns in to a carnival of fun.
Speaking at the finishing line, Ian Tate , Head of Challenges at Norwood said, "We could not have asked for any more from this year's ride. All three charities are thrilled at today's turnout and the funds raised are going to make such a difference to so many people lives!"
For further information, please contact Ronit Shebson, Public Relations Manager at Norwood on 020 8420 6900 or email ronit.shebson@norwood.org.uk
