MORE than 170 cyclists enjoyed a scenic ride around Northwood on Sunday (23) to raise money for Michael Sobell House Hospice.

The popular annual event, Get On Your Bike, raised £12,000 last year for the hospice, which is based at Mount Vernon Hospital and provides care and support for patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families.

Riders basked in the sunshine as the majority embarked on a 35-mile route around the local area, with some opting for the shorter 12-mile and 23-mile journeys.

David Mosely, spokesperson for the hospice, said: “Everyone seemed to really enjoy themselves and we were lucky to have such glorious weather, which accounts for the fabulous turnout.

“Many people have done the ride before and wanted to set themselves a challenge by doing the longest route, which we introduced this year.
“We are very grateful for the support of everyone who took part.”

The hospice must raise £1.2million each year to maintain patient care and would not exist without charitable contributions.

As part of its fundraising efforts, more than 500 women are set to trek through the streets of Northwood next Friday (June 4), as part of the hospice's first Ladies in the Night Walk.

The late-night walk begins at 10pm and ends on the grounds of Mount Vernon Hospital, in Rickmansworth Road, with a choice of a five-or nine-mile route.

Events & community fundraising manager, Ophelia Chambers-Henry, said: “A great deal of work has gone into organising what should be a fun mid-summer Friday night ladies walk.

“Hopefully we will get a good response from women to help fund the service that the hospice provides throughout the year to local patients and families at particularly difficult times.

“We are relying heavily on women, young and old, to make this particular walk a striking success.

“While this walk revolves around women, men are not excluded by any means, they can come along and we can use their help in marshalling, catering and organisation support.”

For further information and an application form for the walk, call Ophelia on 01923 844 829 or email ochambers@michaelsobellhouse.co.uk. Find out more at www.michaelsobellhouse.co.uk