Mayor of Liverpool Waves Off Charity Cyclists
Mayor of Liverpool, Joe Anderson, has officially launched the start of an epic 300-mile cycling challenge, Cycle of Hope, which will raise money for cancer research in the city.
Mayor Anderson waved the peloton of cycling fundraisers on their way as they started their four-day long journey at the city’s iconic Cunard Building on Thursday (July 4th).
The cyclists will take a ferry across the Mersey and travel through Wirral before taking in the historic towns and countryside of Wales, journeying through nature reserves, tranquil country lanes in Connah’s Quay, Newtown, Newcastle Emlyn and Fishguard.
To complete the final leg of the adventure, the team will cross the Irish sea, arriving in Enniscorthy where they will cycle north, passing through Clahoman, Shillelaghs and Donard ready for celebrations at the finishing point in vibrant Dublin.
Among the riders is Professor Sarah Coupland, Director of the North West Cancer Research Centre who is taking part for the second year.
Sponsored by Rutherford Cancer Centres, who operate a national network of cancer centres, money raised will help NWCR support world-class cancer research in Liverpool and across the North West.
Mayor Anderson said: “I am proud of the world-class research taking place in our city and the work that North West Cancer Research does plays a vital part in this. I am delighted to have been able to start Cycle of Hope and wish all the cyclists the very best of luck for the adventure ahead.”
Last year’s inaugural Cycle of Hope raised more than £35,000 which has contributed to NWCR’s pledge of £3million of funding for cancer research at University of Liverpool, Lancaster University and Bangor University.
Alastair Richards, CEO of North West Cancer Research, said: “Each and every cyclist has put in a great deal of work to get ready for this year’s Cycle of Hope and the atmosphere on the starting line was phenomenal.
“On behalf of everyone at the Charity, I would like to thank all of our cyclists for taking on such a tremendous challenge – I look forward to seeing them again on the finish line in Dublin.”
Mike Moran, CEO Proton Partners International who operate the Rutherford Cancer Centres, said: “We are thrilled and honoured to sponsor the North West Cancer Research’s Cycle of Hope for the second year running. As providers of highly advanced precision radiotherapy and chemotherapy for cancer sufferers, we understand the vital role that cancer research has to play in winning the war on cancer.
“It is fantastic to see the widespread support for cancer research through Cycle of Hope, which is raising money for a great cause as well as encouraging healthy living and I would like to urge everyone to make a contribution.”