Diabetes UK looking for people in Devon to saddle up for autumn cycling challenge

People from Devon can get on their bike and raise vital funds for Diabetes UK this autumn by taking part in a cycling challenge.

The UK Wide Cycle Ride runs throughout September and is a perfect opportunity to take your fitness up a gear while raising money for diabetes research along the way.

Challengers can pick from one of four virtual distances, ranging from 150 miles for beginners through to 950 miles for more experienced cyclists, and they have the entire month to clock up the mileage. The aim is to challenge yourself – at your own pace – and pedal towards a stronger, healthier you.

Phaedra Perry, Regional Head Diabetes UK South West said: “Cycling is a fantastic way to help you get fit and healthy, have fun and set yourself a challenge. Autumn is on the way and, with the slightly cooler weather arriving soon, this challenge comes at the perfect time for anyone looking to saddle up and give it a try.

“Demand for our services has reached unprecedented levels across the past 18 months or so and we need your support to be able to continue fighting for people living with the condition. So please sign up and get pedalling – your support can change lives.”

You can cycle the miles however you wish over the 30 days of September, by embracing the outdoors, staying home and using an exercise bike or a mix of the two.

There are four ‘coast to coast’ distances to choose from:

• Route 1: 150 miles, the equivalent of Seascale to Whitby
• Route 2: 220 miles, Margate to Weston-Super-Mare
• Route 3: 500 miles, Scottish North Coast route
• Route 4: 950 miles, Land's End to John O'Groats

Those taking part will get their own fundraising profile page and can join a Facebook group where event ambassadors and challengers discuss their progress and share tips. There are fundraising incentives, with anyone raising £50 or more receiving a medal. Diabetes UK-branded cycling caps and jerseys will go to anyone raising £150 and £300 respectively.

There are an estimated 4.9 million people living in the UK with diabetes − a condition where there is too much glucose in the blood because the body cannot use it properly. If not managed carefully, both type 1 and type 2 diabetes can lead to devastating complications, including sight loss, amputation, kidney failure and stroke. There is currently no known cure for any type of diabetes.

To register for the UK Wide Cycle Ride, visit cycle.diabetes.org.uk. There is no registration fee and no minimum sponsorship.