One hundred energetic local people have generated £10,000 to support Severn Hospice. The Great Big Bike Ride took place in September and the organisers say £10,000 has been raised with some money still coming in. The event was organised by the Hospice in partnership with The Bicycle Hub from Jackfield, and Telford Central Rotary Club.

The Great Big Bike Ride started and finished at Blists Hill Victorian Town in Telford. Participants were able to ride routes ranging from as little as twelve miles to as far as 100 kilometers. There was a small fee to take part and almost everyone raised sponsorship on top. This was the third year the event had been run and was its most successful yet.

Telford and Shropshire cyclists are a generous bunch. The Bicycle Hub also raised over £2,000 for Severn Hospice in August by organising a 100mile ride through the night from Ironbridge to Barmouth (the Cambrian Crusade). The Bicycle Hub team are already in talks with the Hospice about next year's events programme.

Peter Bird who runs The Bicycle Hub said

“The Cambrian Crusade is a unique event and is set to attract cyclists from across the UK. That's really great but we are keen to make sure there's plenty for local cyclists, especially those who like to cycle more normal distances. The 2010 Great Big Bike Ride will be even bigger and even better. We also are talking to Severn Hospice about a new event in the spring: a daffodil ride suitable for all ages and abilities. Details will be on our web site and facebook page as soon as they are agreed.”

Lucy Proctor, Community Fundraising Manager at Severn Hospice said

“The Great Big Bike Ride is one of the highlights of the Shropshire cycling calendar now. I want to say a big thank you to everybody who came along and took part, and to all those who sponsored them. We would also like to thank Raynet, St Johns, Sustrans and CTC for helping to keep the riders safe and making sure that an enjoyable day was had by all.

“The Great Big Bike Ride will return next year, but we are planning big changes. If the idea of taking part in an organised cycling event appeals to you, why not tell us what you would like? Would a shorter, led ride tempt you to come along with the kids? Are you up for a challenge but looking for a shorter (or longer) ride than 100km? Please let us know via This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , the feedback form on our website or 01952 221 351”

For more information visit thegreatbigbikeride.co.uk

If you take part in outdoor activities, especially as a leader or organiser, our latest course should give you exactly what you need. We are running an Outdoor First Aid course on October 9th and 10th 2010, in the Tile Museum, Jackfield, nr Ironbridge, Shropshire.

This is the second time we have organised this course and the feedback from the first course in February was really positive. Book early to avoid disappointment.

The two day course will show you essential lifesaving techniques. You will learn how to deal with casualties safely, systematically and sympathetically in the first few minutes of a more remote incident. You will develop the skills so that with limited resources you can really improve the outcomes of an incident. Part of the course will take place outside so you can practise your First Aid and incident management skills in a realistic setting.

The course is organised by the Bicycle Hub and will be delivered by Robin Camps from Pura Vida First Aid Training. Robin is a Mountain Bike Leader, Bikeability Trainer and Mountain Leader. He has led expeditions in the UK, South America and Borneo.

Robin explained

"The course is suitable for mountain bikers, canoeists, walkers and other people who take part in activities in remote areas. It would also benefit touring cyclists who ride around Shropshire's more remote lanes and byways. The course is HSE accredited and can be used to help gain a range of outdoor National Governing Body awards such as Mountain Leader, Walking Group Leader, Single Pitch Award, British Canoe Union, Scottish Mountain Bike Leader Award, Mountain-bike Instructor Award Scheme. It would still be of great benefit even if you are not working towards any other outdoor qualifications."

Peter Bird from the Bicycle Hub said

"Many of our customers are keen touring cyclists and mountain bikers who often ride into areas where ambulances could take a bit longer to reach them. Even on a social ride, accidents can happen and the skills that Robin will teach people could be the difference between a good and a bad outcome after an accident."

This is bound to be a very popular course so booking is essential. The cost will be £120 per person. Please call 01952 883249 or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to make a booking or ask for further information.

A new course in the Ironbridge Gorge aims to boost the confidence of Shropshire cyclists.

We work very hard to maintain our level of technical expertise.