Jo Hammond, CEO at local charity Cotswold Friends, is embarking on an epic 450km Cycle Challenge, visiting over 100 Cotswold towns and villages along the way, and aiming to raise awareness and funds for the charity. Cotswold ‘Tour de Friends’ started from Moreton-in-Marsh, where the charity is based, on Friday 1st September. The challenge encompasses 14 cycle rides culminating with an 80km South to North Finale from Ashton Keynes to Mickleton, on Friday 20th October.
Jo says, “The aim of my challenge is to raise awareness of the challenges older and vulnerable people face every day, living in our highly rural communities. Cotswold Friends helps local people in over 120 towns and villages across the Cotswolds. I’ll be meeting clients, volunteers, funders and partners along the way and visiting our Community Activity venues – hopefully raising funds towards the ongoing delivery of our community services. I’m a bit daunted by the hilly Cotswold terrain - there is over 6000m of climbing in total. You might see me walking from time to time up the really steep bits!”
At the time of going to Press, the first three rides have been completed – 11 to go! The starting times and locations for the five final rides are listed below and full details of all routes can be found by heading to www.cotswoldfriends.org. Take and a look and see when Jo might be cycling through your village!
- • Guiting Power Loop – Tuesday 3rd October 9.30am
- • Moreton North Loop – Wednesday 4th October 10am
- • Andoversford Loop – Tuesday 10th October 1pm
- • South Cirencester Loop – Friday 13th October 9.30am
- • South to North Finale - Friday 20th October 8am
You can also follow Jo’s progress on Instagram @cotswold_friends
Cotswold Friends works to alleviate loneliness and isolation, improve health and wellbeing and support independent living. Helping over 2,300 people and with an incredible team of over 300 volunteers, charity services include Community Transport, Community Activities, Befriending and Carer Support, helping to keep people connected to their community.
Can you help Jo and Cotswold Friends reach their fundraising target of £5,000? If you might be able to donate, please visit our Just Giving page at: