25th – 28th September 2006
A very good friend died last summer. Brice was a young, fun-loving guy without a care in the world.
When a group of friends decided to do the Great Notts Cycle Ride for charity, we all joked that Brice would beat us all. It came as a great shock when he collapsed and died during the ride.
Finding CRY gave a lot of his friends the support and help needed. To read stories of others, and to know there’s someone there to help, is a comfort.
We wanted to do something to raise money for CRY. This would ensure some good came out of such a terrible situation.
Bearing in mind Brice’s love of cycling and outdoor activities, my partner [Kev Hines] and I agreed to cycle from coast to coast – the West of England to the East, approximately 150 miles.
We set out in late September, and managed to find 4 days of dry weather to help us along.
Day 1 we travelled with with more than a little trepidation, from Whitehaven’s coastline, through the beauty of the Lake District. Or more accurately, over the hills in the Lake District – ouch!
We covered over 40 miles on the first day, and rested well in Greystoke.
Fuelled with full English breakfast, we started day 2 in earnest, watching the countryside change from Lakes to Moors as we crossed the Pennines. The big hills were a challenge, but rewarded us with fantastic views.
Continuing on the 3rd day, we hit the highest point in the route, on Black Hill. There was nobody else around, and we felt on top of the world……literally!
Day 4 was an easier ride, and as we wound our way toward the East coast, we had a chance to stop and swap stories with other riders along the way. Eventually we reached Tynemouth, and the end of the ride.
Chatting in the pub over a well-deserved pint afterward, we agreed that it was a journey Brice would have thoroughly enjoyed.
Almost on cue a stranger put Brice’s favourite song on the jukebox. It was a surreal moment, mixed with 100 emotions, and one we will never forget. The ride raised £790.10 for CRY, a fitting tribute to a young man who meant so much, to so many.
A big thank you to everyone who sponsored us.
Jules Drakeford