Hundreds get on their bikes to help

Hundreds of cyclists –including people whose lives were saved by Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance – took part in the charity’s Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge. The 55-mile route started at Watchet Harbour in Somerset and finished in West Bay. A shorter 11-mile route started at the Royal Oak pub in Drimpton and also finished at West Bay. Taking part in the event were former patients who had experienced the work of Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance first-hand, others cycled in memory of loved ones, as a personal challenge, or as a team.

One such team was Team Ellis, who cycled in memory of Neil Ellis from Uplyme, who died unexpectedly aged 54 in February.

The finish line was a buzz of atmosphere, with music and interviews being played out from KeeP 106, kids and adults having a fun time on the brilliant steam trains and everyone enjoying the refreshments available on offer. There were so many inspirational stories of courage, determination and triumph that were heard, with many hugs and tears shed with families, friends and loved ones.

Although the event is not a race, the first male to cross the finish line was Freddie Mackay and the first female was Rachel Collins.

Ed Highnam, 80, a longserving volunteer of the charity from Sturminster Newton, was the oldest participant who completed the challenging 55-mile route, whilst Adam Tye, at 15, from North Petherton was the youngest. The youngest child to start the 11-mile route from Drimpton was 10-year-old Isabel Swancutt from Bridport – she was also the first to finish.

Emma Jones, Dorset and

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