Hundreds saddle up for Ribble Valley Ride as thousands raised for charity

More than 200 cyclists aged between 12 and 87 took part in this year’s Ribble Valley Ride, helping raise thousands of pounds for charity.

Organised by the Rotary Clubs of Accrington and Clitheroe, the annual event offered routes of 25, 50 and 70 miles through the Ribble Valley countryside and was completed without incident in favourable weather conditions.

Riders praised both the scenic courses and the food available at feeding stations in Chipping and Tosside. One participant joked that “the Ribble Valley Ride is the only cycling event where you gain, not lose, weight due to the great food provided”.

Event organiser John Spencer, of Clitheroe Rotary, said the success of the ride was down to the support of sponsors and participants.

He said: “We owe a big thank you to our various sponsors and the riders that has again allowed several thousand pounds to share between the Rosemere Cancer Foundation and other Rotary supported charities.”

Organisers have already set their sights on next year’s event, which will coincide with the return of the Tour de France to the Ribble Valley.