Scaffolder cycles for charity

Keen Corsham cyclists embarking on a 100-mile ride this weekend have already raised £1,800 for their chosen charity.

The seven friends teamed up to carry out the two-day adventure to the New Forest and back in a bid to raise money for Wiltshire Wishes, a charity helping local children suffering from disabilities and illnesses, and Cancer Research.

The idea was the brainchild of Corsham couple Kerry and Triston Ward, of Prospect, who were inspired by the work of the two charities.

Mr Ward, 34, a scaffolder, will be joined by friends Chris Hemmings, Justin Carr, Gene Gibbins, Steven Ward, Paul Cartwright and Darren Carr on Saturday morning when they leave Corsham.

Mrs Ward, 32, who works at a local sandwich shop, said: “My husband’s mother June was diagnosed with breast cancer and it gave him the idea of raising money for the charity.

“We were also quite moved by work that Wiltshire Wishes is doing. It seems like a really worthwhile local charity which we felt that we could support.

“The team have been busy preparing. Triston has not done something like this before so it will be a good challenge.”

In a bid to save money the team will be camping in the New Forest on Saturday night before making their return journey the next morning. They will be accompanied by friends who are unable to take part in the cycling, who will drive alongside with the camping equipment.

A homecoming party will be held at the Great Western pub, on Prospect, where a barbecue and raffle will be held from 5pm on Sunday to boost funds further.

Mrs Ward, who has three children, added: “A lot of local businesses in Corsham have really been very generous and donated prizes to us. They have been really supportive.”

Jenny Edmonds, founder of Wiltshire Wishes, said: “They had been in touch to say they wanted to do the bike ride to raise money for us. It still amazes me how everyone is getting behind us with all the events they are planning. I really want to wish them the best of luck. We really appreciate what they are doing.”