Bike ride’s triumphant return raises thousands for North-East hospice care

The annual Butterwick Big Bike Ride, held in aid of Butterwick Hospice Care, triumphantly returned to Stockton after being made a virtual event last year due to Covid-19.

Organisers expect the 118 riders to raise at least £5,000 for the charity, adding to a total of more than £100,000 generated by the event since it began in 2003.

There were smiles all around as cyclists prepared for 'the off'
Brian Hutchinson, who launched the annual event 18 years ago in memory of his sister Christine who received care from the hospice, said: “It feels absolutely fantastic to be back. We couldn’t have got better weather, and it’s great seeing everybody able to get back together again.

“I’d like to thank everyone for coming out, and our sponsors for supporting the event – without them, we wouldn’t be able to go ahead. Let’s hope we get lots of sponsorship money in for the Butterwick.”

Riders met at the Elm Tree Social Club, in Stockton, before setting off on the 26-mile route which took them through Elton, Long Newton, Sadberge, Bishopton, and Redmarshall.

Elaine Dunning, engagement executive for Butterwick, said: “We’re delighted to be back, and it’s just lovely to have so many cyclists here supporting the event and enjoying themselves.

Event organisers Brian Hutchinson and Elaine Dunning hope participants had a ‘wheely’ good time

“It’s vital that as we emerge from lockdown we are able to keep our events up and running, and keep money coming in to support the fantastic work Butterwick does in our communities.

“I want to say a massive thanks to Brian – who has done such a fantastic job organising the event for 18 years now – and to our amazing sponsors: FoodCell, Doornbos Equipment UK Ltd, Co-Op Funeral Service, and Interflon.”

Organisers expect the event to return in 2021. Visit www.butterwick.org.uk/events for up-to-date information on all upcoming Butterwick Hospice activities.