Cyclists conquer Dartmoor for hospice care

MORE than 1,000 cyclists saddled up on Sunday for St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth’s thrilling Tour de Moor challenge across Dartmoor, riding as one to raise funds for the charity’s compassionate end-oflife care.

- HERALD REPORTER

Community-spirited riders wearing distinctive branded T-shirts, turned the moor blue in support of the vital services St Luke’s provides for local families affected by terminal illness.

Participants of all ages and abilities tested their two-wheel skills on a choice of three courses, navigating the rugged wilds of the moor. The 53km Beast Mode route offered an exhilarating adventure for the toughest riders aged 12 and above, while the new 28km Adventurer Style route was perfect middle ground, and the 11km MiniMoor along the tarmac Drake’s Trail catered for novices and families with younger children.

Sunday’s cloudy and chilly, but dry, weather was ideal for the annual challenge which is sometimes a battle of mud, along with sweat and gears. This year it was plain sailing, apart from some big splashy puddles to dodge along the way.

Amid the keen riders taking part were many wanting to pay tribute to friends or family members who have been supported by St Luke’s in their final days, weeks or months, knowing that the money they raise in sponsorship will help another family going through the toughest of times.