CYCLING fans can enjoy the ride of a lifetime this summer while raising funds for St. Margaret’s Hospice at Bishops Hull.

Riders taking part in the Somerset charity’s 2019 overseas cycle challenge will pedal from Paris to Geneva, setting off from the Eiffel Tower the day after witnessing the climax of the Tour de France on the Champs-Élysées.

Over four days, the group will cover about 357 miles, including the chance to test themselves on the Col de la Faucille - a category two climb in the Jura Mountains which has featured on the Tour de France route 41 times.

Riders will also be doing their bit to help St. Margaret’s Hospice care for 3,800 people across Somerset each year who are facing a life-limiting illness. Last year, supporters of the charity cycled from London to Amsterdam and Brussels, raising over £15,000 in the process.

Marisa Lovell-Fox, head of fundraising at the charity, said: “Our overseas cycle challenges are always popular with people who like to explore new countries on two wheels while enjoying the camaraderie and support of a friendly group ride. This year’s Tour de France edition is a truly mouth-watering prospect for bike fans.

“Everyone who takes part in this challenge will be making a real difference to people in their community by helping St. Margaret’s Hospice to care for patients, family members and carers who are coping with a life-limiting illness. By signing up now, our cyclists will give themselves plenty of time to start training and raising sponsorship while looking forward to an unforgettable experience this summer.”

The six-day trip will start with the finale of the Tour de France in Paris on Sunday, July 28, and finish with a free day to explore Geneva. 

For more information, visit  www.st-margarets-hospice.org.uk or email [email protected].