Memories of the first Cycle for Life

Please join us at the start line to mark this significant milestone.

You have a choice of three scenic routes through the beautiful Essex countryside - 20, 50 or 100 kilometres – all starting and finishing at our hospice building in Broomfield, Chelmsford. Click here to find out more.

Cycle for Life has been an important fundraising event for Farleigh for the last quarter of a century, helping this charity to provide much-needed care, free of charge, to thousands of local people affected by life-limiting illnesses and bereavement across mid Essex.

Doctor Nic Cooper worked as an assistant doctor at Farleigh for 17 years and was also a director of this charity. He has fond memories of taking part in the first Cycle for Life with his wife, Lesley, and their three daughters.

He said, “Cycle for Life was originally called ‘Ride the Rodings’ but it was the same great event – a lovely bike ride through the Essex countryside. It was always very popular, with a lot of cyclists taking part.

“In the first year, we followed the 30-mile route that went through all of the Roding villages - which is similar to this year’s 50-kilometre ride. I remember one hill that required a bit of pedalling, but Lesley and I and our 14, 12 and 10-year old daughters all got around and we thoroughly enjoyed it. We took part with some friends in their sixties and it really was a nice thing for families of all ages to do together.

“We are unable to take part in Cycle for Life this year but we are very much there in spirit as it’s so important to support Farleigh Hospice. I would encourage everyone taking part to also get sponsored for Farleigh if they can, as it’s a charity that provides such an important and valuable service to the local community and I am proud that I was a part of it.”

Registration for Cycle for Life is open now. For more information on the routes, prices and to book your place, click here to go to the event page.