Brent Knoll’s annual Chris Evans Bike Ride raised another great sum for the British Lung Foundation.
The latest bike ride saw dozens of cyclists participating, starting at the Red Cow pub in the village and then heading across the Somerset Levels over a distance of 25 miles.
The charity event, which was held in memory of local man Chris Evans, also finished with a social event attended by local people.
Chris passed away from a progressive incurable lung disease and monies raised from the charity event will go to the British Lung Foundation to aid research.
The Chris Evans Bike Ride has been held for eight years and has raised over £15,000 for the British Lung Foundation.
The monies have gone directly to the research laboratory at the charity. The Evans family, who host the event, have been invited to the research laboratories to see where the fundraiser’s proceeds have been used.
Rebekah Ahmed, Head of Events and Community Fundraising at the British Lung Foundation, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “We are delighted that the Christopher Evans annual bike ride is now in its eighth year, continuing to raise essential funds for the BLF’s research into Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).”
“We are so grateful to the Evans family for all of the hard work and effort they put into making the event such a success every year in Christopher’s memory. Every contribution makes such a difference to our work and the funds raised over the years have gone to our various IPF research projects, allowing us to invest in better prevention, treatment and one day, even a cure for IPF.”
Cyclists had a new route for this year’s event. Starting at the Red Cow in Brent Knoll, approximately 60 riders headed over the Somerset Levels. The weather was glorious as the cyclists peddled through the leafy country lanes to Chilton Polden.
There was a much-welcomed ‘pit stop’ at the White Hart in Chilton Polden before riders made their way back to the Red Cow covering a distance of 23 miles.
After the ride, the cyclists were joined by family and friends for a delicious hog roast, provided by Russell Astill in the gardens of the Red Cow, Brent Knoll.
Faith Evans said: “A heartfelt thank you to all those who have helped organise, participated in, donated and, contributed to the event over the years – we could not have done it without you.”
“We, as a family, are extremely humbled by the support and friendship given over the years and by the fun, laughter and many memories made from this wonderful event to remember Chris. We look forward to visiting the research laboratories at British Lung Foundation and hope to the continue to support the charity in the years to come.”
The event’s famous raffle did not disappoint. Prizes included The White Company champagne flutes and home scent gift set, a Michael Kors smart watch, Afternoon Tea for two at The Grange, Cheddar Caves and Gorge day ticket, Carvery and Dessert for two at Brent House, Team Sport go-karting experience, Tesco £15 gift card, a meal for two at the Red Cow, Sanders Garden Centre £15 voucher, Rose Farm condiments, Westcroft Cider farm goodies and a mug and biscuit gift pack from the Brent Knoll Village Shop.
Photo of the cyclists outside the Red Cow at the start. Photo taken by Tony Gilbert
