Hemel Hempstead’s Hillbuster gears up to tackle homelessness

One of the South-East’s biggest cycling events has returned to Hemel Hempstead to raise vital funds for a homelessness charity.

Cyclists from across the Home Counties, London and beyond will head to Gadebridge Park on 21 September for the much-anticipated Hillbuster, a challenging and scenic ride through the rolling Chiltern Hills and surrounding countryside of Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire.

All proceeds will support DENS, a charity headquartered in Hemel Hempstead that has been working since 2003 to support individuals facing homelessness, poverty and social exclusion in Dacorum. DENS helps people secure long-term housing and rebuild their lives through tailored support and community engagement.

Organised in partnership with British Cycling, this year’s event features a new 150k route, along with returning 120k, 100k and 60k options, designed to appeal to cyclists of all abilities.

Riders can look forward to chip timing, well-stocked feed stations and a buzzing event village where they can relax and celebrate their achievement.

Charlie Cadogan, a Kings Langley resident, is excited to take on the new 150k route as he marks his sixth time participating in the Hillbuster.

He said: “Wherever a longer route takes us, there is going to be more stunningly glorious countryside to ride through. I love the challenge, it’s very social and it’s very well organised. It’s lovely to see the better side of humanity as the cyclists and marshals look out for each other.”

Community and Events Manager at DENS, said: “The DENS Hillbuster has grown to become a standout fixture in the local cycling scene. We’re expecting this year to be our biggest yet, with hundreds of passionate cyclists from around the nation joining us and using their pedal power to help rebuild lives.”

Cyclists can book their place for the DENS Hillbuster now at www.dens.org.uk/cycle.