Cyclists gear up for annual challenge to help children

The annual ride, now in its eighth year, saw the group cycle through the Meon Valley on behalf of the NSPCC.

Eighteen adults and five children rode from Fareham to Droxford and back.

They followed the old railway line from Fareham, along the Meon Valley, through Wickham to Droxford.

Brian Dunlop, of St Thomas Close in Fareham, has organised the ride for the past few years.

The 48-year-old said: ‘I’ve lost count of the number of years we’ve run it.

‘It went well this year. It was a lovely day. The weather was much better than last year, when we had to ride through torrential rain.

‘It was good fun and it was nice to see some familiar faces but also some new ones too.

‘Each year we get some new people who come along which is great.’

Last year the cyclists raised over £1,000.

This year’s total figure is yet to be counted.

Brian has been supporting the NSPCC for years and regularly holds fundraising events for the charity.

He said: ‘As a parent, my child means everything in the world to me.

‘To know that there are other children out there suffering from neglect or being abused, both mentally and physically, is heartbreaking.

‘It’s important to raise funds for the NSPCC as the charity relies on donations, which can help all those children that are suffering in some way.’

Brian said he has no plans to stop running the bike ride and encourages people to take part next year.

He added: ‘Not only will you be raising money for a good cause, but you’ll be doing something active for the weekend and positive with your life.’