Local people invited to Pedal for Parkinson’s in Stratford-upon-Avon

Local residents are invited to get on their bikes and get into the Olympic spirit this summer, by cycling to raise vital funds for Parkinson's UK.

A one-day cycle challenge will take place in Stratford-upon-Avon on Sunday 10 June at 9am, for Parkinson's UK – the Parkinson's support and research charity.

Pedal for Parkinson's will take place on the peaceful country roads across the picturesque Warwickshire countryside, offering a 5, 20 or 60-mile route.

The ride will start and finish at Stratford-upon-Avon racecourse, and is an ideal opportunity to enjoy a great day out with friends and family.

Stratford-upon-Avon has been specially selected as just one of four locations across the UK, where the organised Pedal for Parkinson's rides will take place.

Paul Jackson-Clark, Director of Fundraising at Parkinson's UK, said: “We are delighted to announce we will once again host a Pedal event in Stratford-upon-Avon. The event was such a success last year and we were made to feel very welcome. 

“The cycle routes are designed for everyone, from families to experienced cyclists.  I would encourage everyone to get involved to help us reach our fundraising target.

“All funds raised from Pedal for Parkinson's will go towards funding specialist Parkinson's nurses in the UK. We are totally dependent on donations, so this event can make a real difference to our work to improve life for everyone affected by Parkinson's."

The entry fee for the five-mile cycle is £7 (free for under 16s) and for both the 20 and 60 mile ride is £18 (£7 for under 16s).  All cyclists will receive an exclusive Pedal for Parkinson's cycling top, sponsorship forms and regular newsletters with fundraising and training tips.

There is no minimum sponsorship required to take part, but the charity suggests cyclists set themselves a fundraising target of £100.

Parkinson's UK hopes to raise £45,000 from the events. All funds raised will go towards funding specialist Parkinson's nurses across the UK.

The Monument Trust has established a fund to match all sponsorship raised during the Pedal events, so all funds raised by the charity's cyclists will be doubled.

To register, call the Parkinson's UK Events Team on 020 7963 9305 or sign up online at www.parkinsons.org.uk/pedal.  Email: events@parkinsons.org.uk

The charity is also looking for volunteers to help support cyclists on the day. To find out more call the Events Team on 020 7963 9305 or email: events@parkinsons.org.uk.