Blackpool fundraisers gear up to support young carers with castle to castle ride

Blackpool Carers is looking for people to saddle up and take on a sponsored ride across the north visiting some of the region's historic castles .

The event follows on from the charity's successful tower to tower adventure which saw 25 people ride from Blackpool to Paris in 2019 to support the young people who look after older poorly relatives on a full time basis.

Mrs Terry Hodkinson, head of business development and fundraising for the charity which has a respite centre in Newton Drive, said that 2020 had been particularly hard for the young people.

She said: "We have obviously lost out in fund raising die to the pandemic, we are down £130,000 alone just from all our events such as the bike ride being cancelled in 2020, but the young carers have been doubly hurt by the restrictions.

"For them caring full time for relatives, going to school is like time off for them, so with schools being closed they have missed out on that. When they come to here Beaverbrooks House that's their time away and with the centre being closed for much of last year, they have not had that respite either.

"Many care for very vulnerable people, so they have had the added worry of whether they were going to bring the virus back to their homes when they do go out. The year has brought added stress to them.

"Luckily we have now got the go-ahead to open now with social distancing measures, our respite care is carrying on and the kids love being back here."

The 199 mile castle to castle ride will take place from August 4 to August 7. Riders will start on the beach at spectacular Bamburgh Castle on the Northumbrian coast before heading to Alnwick Castle which featured in the Harry Potter films, then riding via Hexham, Hadrian's Wall to Lowther Castle before finishing at Lancaster Castle.

The riders will do around 70 miles a day with full support from Chapeau Events which will provide crew to service the bikes, daily lunches and water stops, overnight accommodation and a celebration meal at the end.

One rider taking part is Blackpool, social worker Sharron Mulvanney, 51. Sharron took part in the Blackpool to Paris ride despite having a heavy old bike, no cycle cleats or professional gear. This time she has a new bike from Preston firm Ribble Cycles.

Sharron said: "It was a real adventure. This time will be shorter, but historically very interesting. There is great camaraderie and people go along with others of the same pace. We are really well looked after by the organisers, they even serviced my bike overnight. There were tough days but also inspiring ones and I think I experience the full range of emotions!

"I was a social worker in Blackpool for 27 years and I know how good this charity is. People will know exactly where their money is going to some of the most deserving and staying in the local area."

Riders are expected to raise £1,200 in sponsorship. Anyone interested in taking part is asked to call Terry on 01253 393748 or email her at [email protected]

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