Injured veterans complete Coast2Coast fundraiser

10 April 2015

Five Blesma Members along with a group of friends have completed a gruelling 140-mile cycle ride from the west coast of England to the east coast in three days, raising almost £7,000 in the process for Blesma, The Limbless Veterans.

The team started the challenge on Bank Holiday Monday from the Eric Morecambe statue in Morecambe Bay, with Mayor of Lancaster Councillor Susie Charles seeing them off.

She said: “It’s absolutely inspiring what the team are doing – I couldn’t imagine myself taking on this kind of challenge! I encourage people to dig deep and support Blesma and those who have made such sacrifices in the name of serving their country.”

The route saw the riders pass through Ingleton, Hawes, Redmire, Leyburn, Thirsk and Malton before finishing at Filey seafront on Wednesday afternoon where they were met by representatives of the local Royal Marines Association.

Ride co-ordinator and Blesma Member Jonathan Bell said: “We set out to achieve two goals: to raise money, and to raise awareness for Blesma – we have achieved those goals. What was so special about the ride itself was that everyone from family members, support staff, riders and mechanics all pulled together in what was a fantastic team effort. Thank you to all involved.”

So far, the team have collectively raised nearly £7,000 but there is still money coming in. Donations are still being accepted at: https://www.justgiving.com/C2CFORBLESMA/

Blesma, The Limbless Veterans is the national charity for all limbless service men and women, their widows and dependants. It was formed in the years following the First World War and became a national charity in 1932.

-ENDS-

Notes to Editor

Hi-res images can be downloaded from the links below:

Riders at Blackpool Home: /media/285154/group-day-1-2-.jpg

Riders at start with Mayor of Lancaster: /media/285155/_DSC1750b.png

Riders at the finish: /media/285156/Group-end.png

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