Chesterfield Firms Back the British Heart Foundation
Two Chesterfield companies have proved they are all heart by sponsoring a charity bike ride.
Autoworld and JE James, both based in Brimington Road North, have sponsored the British Heart Foundation’s (BHF) Dark Peak Mountain Bike Challenge.
The event, which offers a taster of the trails in the Dark Peak to a full on assault of all the best the area has to offer, takes place on Saturday 8 October. Cyclists can choose between a 14, 23, 34 and 42 mile route.
Both companies pledged their support to the event and the nation’s heart charity because they feel the BHF is a worthwhile cause and the event takes place in Derbyshire.
Dean McFarlane, a graphic designer at Autoworld, is a member of Sheffield Mountain Bike Team ‘Big Wednesday’ and will be taking on the 42 mile route with four colleagues. He said: “At Autoworld, we are thrilled to be able to support a charity such as the British Heart Foundation. Heart disease is the UK’s biggest killer and most of us know someone who has been affected by it. You can sponsor Dean here: http://www.justgiving.com/Dean-McFarlane/
“I have heard great things about this event and I am really looking forward to taking on the challenge and getting stuck in. I hope that other people will join me on the day for what promises to be a fantastic event.”
Chris James, partner at JE James, added: “Cycling is a fantastic way to keep fit and look after your heart so at JE James, we are delighted to be supporting this event. The great thing about the Dark Peak Mountain Bike Challenge is there is a choice of four routes so there is something for every cyclist.”
Previously known as the Dark Peak Challenge, this event now starts from Hope Valley College with a choice of four routes. The Adventure Route is 14 miles and is a great introduction to the Dark Peaks. Although the shortest route, it will still provide you with some technical rocky trails, big hills and wonderful views.
The Advanced Route is 23 miles and is suited to more experienced riders wanting to ride some of the more technical trails, taking in some of the Dark Peak classics. At 34 miles, there is the Extreme Route which is for very fit and competent riders only, this is the ultimate off road biking experience. With 34 miles of steep hills and technical terrain, this really is a tough challenge. The Ultimate Route is 42 miles and for very fit and competent riders only, this is the ultimate off road biking experience. With 42 miles of steep hills, technical terrain and exposed stretches this is the toughest of them all.
Event organiser Helen Whiteley added: “We are delighted to have the sponsorship of Autoworld and JE James and I would like to thank them for backing us. This bike ride is really popular as it offers something for all off-road cyclists in a stunning area so I would urge people to get signed up quickly. “I really hope you will join us at this great event. It is also our 50th birthday this year so help us celebrate by aiming to raise £50 sponsorship– fifty for fifty. Just a pound for every year the BHF has been doing it life saving pioneering work.”
Entry is £15 for more information visit bhf.org.uk/peakmountainbike. Or for more information, contact 0800 169 3672 or email northwestwales@bhf.org.uk
Pictured are (L-R) Chris James; Judith Barcroft, marketing manager at Autoworld; Helen Whiteley and Dean McFarlane.