Still time to join Wrekin cycle challenge for Compton Care

Compton Care's annual Round the Wrekin challenge is going ahead in a virtual capacity this year and is being supported as ever by long-standing celebrity supporter Hugh Porter.

The 81-year-old cyclist, who won four world titles in the individual pursuit as well as a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games in 1966, is saddling up to cycle about 25 miles for the Round the Wrekin ride on May 16.

There are four suggested cycling routes (10 miles, 25, 50 or 'the epic' 100) but this year anyone can take part anywhere, even from home on a static cycle.

Hugh will be meeting with socially distanced groups of six with his cycling club, the Wolverhampton Racing Cycling Club, on May 16 to cycle around the picturesque Shropshire countryside.

He is hoping to boost the number of donations as well as registered cyclists taking part this year to maximise the benefit to Compton Care, which helps people with complex or incurable illnesses.

Hugh said: "Compton Care is a very worthy cause and very near to my heart. I'm a patron, as is my wife.

"I love raising money for them – these organisations need help."

Last year for his 80th birthday, Hugh completed an 80-mile challenge and raised thousands of pounds for Compton Care.

Anyone taking part in the event is asked to either make a donation or raise sponsorship for Compton Care, with a range of rewards on offer for those raising certain amounts.

Those raising or donating £50 will receive a finishers medal, £250 means an official Compton Care cycling jersey and £500 will see the donator or fundraising receive a unique Round the Wrekin hooded top.

To find out more and to sign up, go to comptoncare.org.uk/support-us/fundraiseforus/events/round-the-wrekin