Well over one hundred locals took part in our annual fundraiser Bike It Brighton, held last Sunday 11 July, to raise money for rough sleepers in Brighton and Hove. With the help of sponsors JMR Property Maintenance and Infinity Surveying the event has raised an impressive £10,984.
Cycle rides on the day began and finished at Preston Park velodrome, with participants choosing between a 30- or 60-mile cycle challenge across the South Downs, with fully signposted and scenic routes. BHT Sussex worked with CSS Events to organise a Covid-secure event which had first aid and mechanical support on hand throughout.
Money raised from this event will be going to First Base, our day centre for rough sleepers in Brighton and Hove. We also partnered with several other local charities to enable them to participate and raise additional funds for their own causes, including Whoopsadaisy, FareShare Sussex, the Crew Club, Independent Lives and Chailey Heritage Foundation.
Juliet Hinton-Smith, Community Fundraising Officer at BHT Sussex, said:
The atmosphere on the day was great, and we are so pleased everyone had such an enjoyable time! We are delighted to have raised much needed funds for First Base; this money will make a huge difference to people who are homeless or insecurely housed in our city.
A participant on the day had this to say about the event:
Absolutely fantastic!! The people on the ride and marshals are so friendly and supportive. Everyone feels welcome from beginner riders to more experienced riders. I don’t feel like I should be on a high-end bike with all the gear. This is what I like about the ride!
The event is an annual fundraiser, so if you would like to register your interest for next year’s cycle challenge, you can visit bht.org.uk/bike.
