CHARITY FOCUS
Live Ribble Valley takes a look at ongoing fundraising projects that see thousands of pounds donated to good causes
RIBBLE VALLEY RIDE
Entries for the 2025 Ribble Valley Ride are now open with places for the popular cyclosportive capped at 500. Now in its 10th anniversary year, the Ribble Valley Ride is aiming to raise £10,000 for local charities.
More than 300 cyclists from across the North West took part in last year’s ride raising more than £5,500 which was shared between Rosemere Cancer Foundation, Ribble Valley First Aiders and Rotary Great Britain & Ireland.
Once again sponsored by Ribble Cycles, this year’s ride incorporates an easy family-friendly 25-mile route, a more challenging 50-mile route and a demanding 70-mile route taking in some of the best hill climbs in the Ribble Valley and Forest of Bowland.
All three routes will be signed and marshalled, with regular food and hydration stops along the way. Technical back-up is also available. Organised by the Rotary Clubs of Accrington and Clitheroe, this year’s ride has again received generous backing from a number of local sponsors, including Heidelberg Materials (formerly Hanson Cement) and Rufus Carr.
Chip timing and full classified results will be available to all riders.
Event organiser Bill Honeywell, who established the Ribble Valley Ride in 2015, said: “Over the last decade, the Ribble Valley Ride has raised more than £65,000 for local charities and we’d really like to top £75,000 this year. The dedicated team of volunteers who organise the ride are working hard to make the event as accessible and inclusive as possible – for instance by allowing people to take part on electric bikes.”
The Ribble Valley Ride 2025 will take place on Sunday 8th June. For further details go to: ribblevalleyride.org
SPRING STYLE
Put a spring in your step and join Style Counsel for a fashion event featuring the launch of a new clothing brand, a catwalk showcase, fabric corner and a raffle in aid of Cystic Fibrosis. The event is set to be staged on 22nd March at the Workhouse Creative Agency on Blackburn Road, Ribchester.
It is the second event to be held by Style Counsel which will be showcasing a capsule wardrobe and demonstrating how to make the most of a few items of clothing and still look fabulous!
The event, from 2pm to 6pm, will also feature a ‘trading rail’ where guests bring one item of clothing they are willing to trade.
Ticket price (on the door) is £10 but please message Laura on 07702 482703 or Jane on 07771 750655 for numbers.
CASH AWARD
The Marsden Building Society Charitable Foundation has awarded a £2,990 grant to Colne Citadel, to fund bingo sessions aimed at tackling isolation and loneliness amongst local people aged 50 plus. Colne Citadel aims to improve the lives of residents by reducing social isolation in a safe, caring environment.
Rob Pheasey, Chief Executive at the Marsden Building Society, said: “It’s a pleasure to support Colne Citadel in providing a valuable and popular activity for over 50s living in our area. By providing a welcoming and inclusive space, these sessions offer attendees the opportunity to connect with others, engage in enjoyable activities and experience a sense of belonging. This initiative aligns with the Marsden’s aim to give back to the communities we serve and make a positive impact on the lives of our neighbours.”
The Marsden Building Society Charitable Foundation aims to support projects throughout Lancashire focusing on three key themes – financial well-being, societal inclusion and the environment.
For more information about the foundation, visit: themarsden.co.uk.
If you have any charity news please contact: jan.woolley@live-magazines.co.uk
