Cumbrian businesses urged to support challenge event in aid of hospice

Bikes Boats Boots, an event organised by Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw, is returning for a third time, following the success of last year’s fundraising challenge. 

The event is set to take place on Sunday, May 12, and will see participants raise funds for the hospice and look to build on the more than £36,000 that was raised in 2023.

Based in and around Ullswater, the team challenge involves 30 miles of cycling, canoeing two miles around the lake, and an 11km hike up stunning Helvellyn. 

Representatives of local businesses have already signed up to the event and others across Cumbria are being urged to register as soon as possible to guarantee their place. 

One of the firms supporting the event again this year is Penrith-based Ast. 

Mark Aston, managing director of Ast said: "Eden Valley Hospice and Jigsaw do such good things and we are keen to support them. 

Mark Aston (Image: Eden Valley Hospice)"Last year when we got involved in Bikes Boats Boots, as well as helping to raise vital funds for the charities, it also gave our team an amazing day out together – one that we really enjoyed and so it was a no-brainer to support the event again this year. 

"I encourage other Cumbrian businesses to get behind it and get involved."

Eleanor Viney, fundraising manager for the hospice added: "Bikes Boats Boots was an incredible event last year, not only raising vital funds so local patients can continue to be cared for by the hospice, but also helping people to beat personal challenges, build and strengthen teams and most importantly, have fun. 

“We’d love to see as many people as possible join us this year so make sure to sign-up soon and guarantee your team’s place."