Cyclists brave heat for 200-mile charity ride

A group of cyclists are braving the heatwave, taking on a 200-mile ride to support children in care.

Forty-five cyclists, along with their support crew, set off from Lincoln Cathedral on Friday and aim to arrive at York Minster on Sunday.

The group, called Biking for Children in Care, is raising money for Become, a charity that campaigns for a better care system for young people.

Gill Timmis, one of the cyclists taking part, said: "The bike rides are not just a physical challenge but about raising awareness of what the care system is like, how it's in crisis and what needs to change."

Timmis, 75, added: "The reason we do it is because I'm a social worker and I've seen the difficulties that children face.

"I think it's not a well-known issue and we've managed to raise the profile of the issue."

According to Become, the number of children in care in Lincolnshire stands at 805, which is an increase of 18% in five years.

Almost half of them are living more than 20 miles away from their friends, family and school, the charity added.

The challenge is the group's 25th ride for Become. Timmis said the annual event, held in a different location each year, has raised more than £1m.

The group's years of experience means they are well prepared for all conditions, including the 34C heat in Lincoln.

Kev Stroud, 62, said: "If I sign up for something, I'd like to see it through. Heat or no heat, I'll be here and I'm supporting Become... it's a very good cause."

He added: "It's a big challenge, but it's an extra challenge with the heat."

Eduardo Ceppi Di Lecco, 74, said: "This weather has been exceptional."

He said the team went to bed early so they could be on their saddles at 07:00 BST to avoid the midday heat.

"We've got experience," he said. "We've all got to get there safely."

Timmis said they have a support team with them, comprising four to five vehicles, a catering team and a snack team.

"It's not a race, we stick together, we look after each other," she said.

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