Paul Hardwick from Shepton Mallet, as part of ‘Team Riley’, is gearing up once again to take on Children’s Hospice South West’s (CHSW) three day cycling event, Ride for Precious Lives.
The 205 mile cycle challenge takes place from 11 to 13 July 2025 and will see 120 cyclists pedal from Little Harbour hospice in St Austell to Charlton Farm hospice in North Somerset, via Little Bridge House hospice in Barnstaple.
For Paul, taking part in Ride for Precious Lives isn’t just about cycling. His motivation comes from witnessing firsthand the care his local children’s hospice, Charlton Farm in Wraxall, provided to his close friends and their son, Riley.
Riley was supported by the hospice before and after he passed away from a terminal brain tumour. The compassion shown to Riley and his family left a lasting impression on Paul. So when Riley’s mum asked if he would consider taking part in the cycling event, it was an easy and immediate “yes.”
Paul took part in the event last year and recalls being deeply moved by the atmosphere and incredible sense of team spirit.
The hospice team provided unreal support throughout the ride, and I got to know so many wonderful people.
The experience left a lasting impact, and this year Paul is returning with even more determination to make a difference.
Paul is currently training hard for the challenging Cornish hills that await at the start of the route. “I’m trying to ride more hills in training. There will be lots of climbing from the start!” he says.
Despite a busy schedule that’s made fundraising more difficult this year, he hasn’t lost sight of his purpose.
I think about what the hospice team do on a daily basis. Riding a bike is nothing compared to their daily efforts.
This year’s ride will be extra special, as Riley’s dad Alex is joining him. “Team Riley is not just me and Alex, but everyone else involved in helping to raise money for the hospice.”
Together, they’ll finish the ride at Charlton Farm, where friends and family will be waiting to cheer them on.
Paul has been raising funds through a JustGiving page and a collection tin at his mother-in-law’s salon. The support from friends, family, and the wider community has been heartwarming. “People have been very generous. It’s all about raising as much money as possible for the hospice.”
Kiley Pearce, Events Fundraiser for CHSW added: "It is inspiring to have family and friends of children supported by our three hospices take part in Ride for Precious Lives – it is why this event is such an important part of our portfolio and special to those taking part.
It is an honour to have Paul take part again in 2025 along with Alex, Riley’s father and for us to support them across the 3 days to complete this challenge.
One conversation from last year’s ride has really stuck with Paul; “I met a great guy who works at Charlton Farm. He told me the hospice is a happy place where sad things can happen. I keep that in mind all the time. It’s a unique place and not what people expect.”
Paul hopes his efforts inspire others to donate and support CHSW. “If people read this and put their hand in their pocket and donate, that’s what it’s all about.” His biggest hope after the ride is simple: to feel that he’s raised a “decent amount” for a place that means so much to so many.
And when he sets off on that first hill, he’ll be carrying not just determination, but memories of Riley, marked by the Mario and Luigi badges he’ll proudly wear in tribute to the young boy who loved them most.
If you would like to be part of Ride for Precious Lives 2026 and support families when they need it most, registration is now open, find out more and sign up at www.chsw.org.uk/ride26