81-year old cycles 2000-miles in lockdown
Ann Wilson, from Burton in Wiltshire, has shown great strength and determination during this difficult time. All through the first lockdown, and before she turned 82, Ann decided to raise money for three charities close to her heart by getting on her bike!
As someone who likes to remain active, Ann began with a target of cycling 820 miles ahead of her 82nd birthday. Ann said: “When the first lockdown came into force I couldn't go to the gym so decided to increase my cycling for exercise.”
“When the first lockdown came into force I couldn't go to the gym so decided to increase my cycling for exercise.”
Ann continued: “As the weather was kind and the roads were quiet due to lockdown, I managed 2,000 miles.”
Initially Ann wanted to raise funds for her local medieval church, St Mary’s. She said: “Then I realised other charities were probably in the same difficult position financially so I thought I would set myself a challenge to raise some money through sponsorship while cycling.”
Ann raised an incredible £1,500. She said: “Once my birthday was reached, I gave the donations to the three charities dear to my heart, children, animals and heritage.” Ann’s fundraising has been split between Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW), Horseworld, and Heritage.
CHSW’s Charlton Farm, situated in North Somerset, is the local hospice for families in the area and provides a safe haven of care, support and friendship for children with life-limiting conditions and their families.
Emily Mitchard, Area Fundraiser at CHSW, said: “We are very grateful to Ann; she’s been incredible and an inspiration to anyone thinking about taking on sponsored challenge. These are uncertain times for everyone, but we have been buoyed by the support we have received from our wonderful supporters who are passionate about wanting to stand with families who need our love and generosity now more than ever.”
The charity provides respite, emergency, end-of-life and bereavement care and support for the whole family. It has adapted its care during the pandemic to ensure Covid-safe support wherever and whenever families need it, including for the first time ever, in families’ own homes.
CHSW is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year and there are lots of ways people can join the charity and mark this important milestone. To get involved click here