Superb effort by cyclists as Dartmoor Challenge raises £20,000 for cancer charity

MEMBERS of Firefighters Fighting Cancer, with the assistance of a team from Cancer Research UK, organised the fifth annual Dartmoor Cycle Challenge on Sunday.

The event started in Plympton and offered two courses of 25 and 50 miles. Each course followed the old railway track on to the moor and circled Burrator Reservoir, with the longer course looping around Princetown.

In all 308 cyclists took part in the event raising a staggering £20,000 for cancer research.

Weather conditions were good for the ride, being bright and cool with a mild breeze. However the determination and efforts of the individual cyclists, combined with the tremendous support from members of the public, led to the team raising more money than expected.

Event organiser Colin Tyrer thanked the public for their kindness. He said: 'The interest that the public took in the event was inspiring. For so many people to make such an effort, not just in cycling the distance but in raising so much sponsorship, was exceptional.' 

Jon Miller, the events co-ordinator from Sidmouth, thanked Sylvia Arlett of Cancer Research UK for her efforts in helping to organise the event. He also thanked the local fire station at Princetown and all other volunteers who helped make it such a success.

Sylvia Arlett of Cancer Research UK congratulated the team. Sue said: 'It was an excellent effort from the cyclists and the firefighters alike. They worked very hard all day, especially considering the distances involved. We are delighted that we were able to assist the team in raising so much money for such a worthy cause.'

The intention is to hold the event again next year. The team of ten firefighters has now raised more than £100,000 for cancer research. The team from across Devon and Somerset have been undertaking a wide range of charity events for the last five years following the sad loss of a fellow cyclist.

A donation can be made via the website or by post to 'Firefighters Fighting Cancer', Devon and Somerset Fire & Rescue Service, Service HQ, Clyst St George, Exeter. EX3 0NW. Cheques should be made payable to 'Cancer Research UK'.