Get on your bike for charity

Mar 4 2010 by Alistair Watson, West Lothian Courier

A WEST Lothian man is challenging people to get on their bikes to raise funds for charity.

Broxburn man Sandy Miller has raised tens of thousands of pounds for Guide Dogs for the Blind Association since 2001.

And he hopes to raise even more by getting as many people as possible to take part in his annual sponsored cycle from Glasgow to Edinburgh on Saturday, May 15.

Sandy, who lost his sight due to a virus and has a guide dog himself, first organised the cycle event in 2003 and now it has become a popular annual event for fundraisers.

There are plenty of spaces still available for the event and Sandy hopes to get as many people as possible to take part in the event.

Sandy said: “This great cycling event, supported by companies throughout Scotland, takes place along the scenic towpaths of the historic Forth and Clyde, and Union canals.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for a fun day out for the whole family, and at the same time raising funds for a charity which supports blind and partially-sighted people.”

The route along the canals via the Falkirk Wheel covers around 50 miles.

There is transport available for you and your bike to the start in Glasgow from the finishing point at the canal in Ratho.

This means your car can be waiting for you at the end of the day, no matter how quickly or slowly you complete the challenge.

Registration for the cycle challenge begins at 8am at the canal car park in Ratho with buses leaving for Glasgow at 8.30.

And you do not have to be super fit to take part in it as there are several stops along the way for comfort breaks.

Snacks and drinks will be provided free of charge all day and cyclists will have the chance to relax with some lunch at the Falkirk Wheel.

At the journey’s end in Ratho, certificates will be presented to those who have managed to complete the cycle challenge.

To take part in the event a minimum donation target of £50 must be raised and forwarded to the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association by the end of April.

Sandy added: “There is no limit though, so please raise as much as you can so that Guide Dogs can continue to provide life-changing support to blind and partially-sighted people.

“You can also download and print off a sponsor form or other fundraising materials on our website.”

Individual entrants must be aged 16 or over but younger cyclists can take part accompanied by an adult.

All cyclists are expected to bring a bike suitable for off road conditions, a first aid kit and a helmet.

To find out more contact Sandy on 01506 857951 or 07736882505.

Alternatively e-mail sandmil@blueyonder.co.uk for a fundraising support pack.