Over 150 people saddle up to raise money for charity

Over 150 people joined in with Severn Hospice’s Daffodil Ride, near Bridgnorth, to welcome in the first day of British Summertime (Sunday 27 March 2011).

The cycle ride was organised by the local charity and supported by Shropshire Council, The Bicycle Hub and Sustrans.

Cyclists were able to try out the newly-opened cycle route between Bridgnorth and Coalport, which forms part of National Cycle Network Route 45.  This route uses six miles of disused railway, providing a level, traffic-free route between Bridgnorth and Coalport.

The route is now open for walking, cycling and horse riding following surfacing and fencing works by Shropshire Council and agreements with local landowners.  A route map and guide can be downloaded from www.shropshire.gov.uk/cycling.nsf.

The official opening of the route was attended by:- Lady Hamilton and her son Gavin Hamilton; Lady Forester and her daughter Selina Graham; Graeme Manton, Manager, Apley Estates; John Grimshaw, founder of Sustrans; Shropshire Councillor Christian Lea; and officers from Shropshire Council.

Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for culture and leisure, said:

“The Daffodil Ride was a great success and I hope lots of money was raised for this deserving charity.

“This new section provides access to a beautiful part of the county’s countryside and I’m sure it will be well used.”

Christian Lea, a Shropshire Councillor for Bridgnorth East and Astley Abbotts, said:

“Judging by the number of cyclists that I saw whilst I was at the opening of the new cycle route last weekend, I know that it is going to be an extremely well- used and popular route with local people and tourists visiting the area.”

John Grimshaw, founder of Sustrans, said:

“I first discovered this beautiful route 20 years ago.  This is an absolutely critical section between Bridgnorth and Ironbridge and it will transform cycling in the area.   It’s a tremendous local asset and with the visitor attractions in the two towns, it’s a day out for the whole family.  It’s also a great place to gain the confidence to learn to cycle again, and somewhere to let youngsters ride away from traffic.”

Cyclists on the Daffodil Ride included 34 adults and children from Brockton CE Primary School.  They had turned out to raise funds for Severn Hospice, where Graham Goodman was cared for.  Mr Goodman, who passed away earlier this year, was a popular member of the local community and a parent of children at Brockton School.