With 172 riders taking the start line across the day’s races, that means another £172 donated to support those fighting MS. The Western Cyclocross League continues through until January with the next Round where Bike the UK for MS is the charity partner taking place in Bradford on Avon on the 29th October. A huge thanks and congratulations to all the riders who took part in this British Cycling event and we hope your season has started well!
Action from the Western Cyclo-cross League 2023/24 – Round 1 in Frome, Somerset. Photo credit: Dave Dodge – Pelotonpix
This is the first time that a cyclocross race in the Western Cyclocross League has partnered with Bike the UK for MS to help raise funds but both the charity’s Founder James Whateley and Programme Manager Felix Young have raced in the league over the past ten years. Cyclocross is a sport where riders race on grass (and mud!) for up to an hour on a course that may force you to get off and carry your bike with things like steps and hurdles. The Western Cyclocross League features races from across North Somerset, Wiltshire, Bristol and Gloucestershire with eleven races this season. The event in Frome was organized with the support of Frome Town Council, Frome Cricket Club and Frome and District Agricultural Society. If you are running an event and would like to partner up with Bike the UK for MS to help contribute to supporting those fighting MS then please get in touch via info@biketheukforms.org.
Bike the UK for MS ventured into the heart of Wales with the inaugural Lôn Las Cymru ride in May. This challenging yet rewarding route covers approximately 250 miles (400 km) from the picturesque town of Holyhead to the vibrant cities of Cardiff. The ride not only offered scenic landscapes, but also served a higher purpose, raising funds and awareness for multiple sclerosis (MS). Let’s dive into the unforgettable experience of the cycling Lôn Las Cymru in 2023 and explore the renowned route to inspire your next adventure.
The 2023 Lôn Las Cymru Ride
The 2023 team was composed of 11 exceptional Bike the UK for MS alumni, individuals who had previously embarked on trips such as Land’s End to John O’Groats, the North Coast 500 and the Sea to Sea with the organisation. Supported by 5 route leaders, the team consisted of diverse participants, from students and young professionals to parents, all united by a common goal – raising £1.50 per mile ridden to reach a collective target of £6000. Some team members had MS themselves or a direct connection to the disease, making the journey even more meaningful.
Lovely country lanes whilst cycling Lôn Las Cymru
Throughout the 4-day ride, the team encountered challenges and triumphs. The route presented steep climbs in and around Eryi National Park (Snowdonia), but the splendid weather graced them with awe-inspiring views. The group navigated equally steep descents made challenging with rough roads in places. As they progressed through mid Wales and reached Brecon Beacons, the meandering country lanes offered tranquil surroundings and a taste of Wales’ natural beauty. The final day culminated with a breathtaking ride (both physically and metaphorically) from Talybont Reservoir to Pontsticill Reservoir, followed by a jubilant finish at Cardiff Bay, just outside the Wales Millennium Centre.
The 2023 team cheering after completing the route
The Lôn Las Cymru Route
Length and Direction
Spanning 250 miles (400 km), the Lôn Las Cymru route runs between Holyhead and either Cardiff or Chepstow. For an optimal journey home with better train options, our preferred direction is from north to south, starting in Holyhead and finishing in Cardiff. This approach also places the challenging climbs early on, with the toughest ascent between Porthmadog and Llanidloes on Day 2. However, when finishing in Cardiff be prepared for slow-going bike paths on busy weekends for the final stretch along the River Taff.
Recommended Duration
While Lôn Las Cymru can be completed in a single day for those seeking an intense challenge, a 4 to 5-day adventure allows riders to savour the stunning surroundings and take on the climbs at a steady pace.
Accommodation and Food Options
Cyclists have various accommodation choices, including hotels, B&Bs, hostels, and campsites. Numerous towns along the route provide ample opportunities to replenish food and water supplies. While the route offers regular access to amenities, carrying plenty of snacks and planning for unexpected shop closures is important. Alternatively, van supported trips are a good option for a stress free ride.
Following the Sustrans Route 8 signsAmazing views on route for the riders and support crew
Following the Lôn Las Cymru
The official Lôn Las Cymru route map is designed by Sustrans, primarily following Route 8, but occasionally connecting with Routes 4 and 5. The route is well signposted, although riders should stay alert for obscured signs. A reliable bike computer or following along on Strava can enhance the navigation experience.
Best Time to Cycle Lôn Las Cymru
To avoid the unpredictable Welsh weather, summer months (June to August) are recommended for cycling Lôn Las Cymru. Despite increased traffic during the holiday season, the majority of the route is on quiet back lanes and bike paths, minimising risks.
Planning Resources
Sustrans offers a route map for purchase. We have bespoke Lôn Las Cymru maps with day-by-day, 1-page maps with turn-by-turn directions available upon request too. Find the route and download the Lôn Las Cymru GPX files from our Strava:
Day 1 – Holyhead to Porthmadog 68.5 miles and 3,658ft of climbing
Day 2 – Porthmadog to LLanidloes 71 miles and 7,371ft of climbing
Day 3 – Llanidloes to Brecon 63.5 miles and 4,700ft of climbing
Day 4 – Brecon to Cardiff 52 miles and 2,461ft of climbing
Lôn Las Cymru features challenging climbs, particularly on Day 2 between Porthmadog and Llanidloes. Descents may present road surfaces with potholes, gravel, and moss, requiring cautious riding. Consider using wider and sturdier tires for added protection against flats.
All Abilities Welcome
While the route demands solid fitness and preparation, Lôn Las Cymru is designed to be achievable for riders of all abilities. A base level of fitness is essential, but it’s still an excellent option even for first-time multi-day bike adventurers. Those who prefer additional support can explore guided and supported ride options too.
Highlights to Treasure
Cycling Lôn Las Cymru rewards riders with unparalleled vistas and memorable stops along the way. From the natural beauty of Snowdonia and Brecon Beacons to the warmth of Welsh communities, the route offers an unforgettable experience.
Supporting Local Communities
We encourages participants to respect and engage with the towns along the route. Fostering connections and appreciation for the local communities is vital to maintain great cycling routes like Lôn Las Cymru.
We had the privilege of meeting the Gwynedd/Ynys Mon Group of the MS Society at the Fron Goch Garden Centre in Caernarfon. The group, run by the volunteers, Susannah Robinson, and her team, covers a wide area of North Wales.
Conclusions on cycling Lôn Las Cymru
Lôn Las Cymru with Bike the UK for MS is an incredible 4-day cycling adventure through the heart of Wales, offering not only spectacular landscapes, but also an opportunity to support those living with MS. The 2023 ride was a resounding success, creating lasting memories for the team and providing essential funds for those living with MS.
Join the Lôn Las Cymru adventure in 2024! Experience camaraderie, breathtaking views, and the fulfilment of supporting an great cause. Register today to become part of the Bike the UK for MS family. Embark on a journey that will leave a lasting impact!
[Author’s note: Please note that the information provided is based on the 2023 ride and may be subject to updates in subsequent years.]
A Personal Connection to MS and Passion for Cycling
Meet Dan Derbyshire, an inspiring individual who has embarked on an incredible journey to cycle for MS with Bike the UK for MS. Dan’s father has been living with relapsing and remitting MS for 16 years. Seeing the impact it had on his father’s life motivated Dan to take action.
As a child, Dan was taught to ride a bike by his father, which ignited his passion for cycling. This eventually led to mountain biking and even passing his motorbike test. Dan and his father would regularly ride their motorbikes together, but when Dan decided to raise money for MS, he swapped his motorbike for a road bike to complete the Sea to Sea route.
Dan first discovered Bike the UK for MS in 2019, but with university commitments getting in the way, he was only able to take on a challenge in 2022. In this blog, we will explore Dan’s motivation for riding the Sea to Sea route. You’ll get an insight into his experience out on the road and understand why he’s returning as a Route Leader in 2023.
Why did you want to ride with Bike the UK for MS last summer?
“I’d wanted to take part in some form of fundraising and spent lots of time searching the MS Society website. I was affected by his diagnosis in a way that most boys and their father would understand. I’ve grown up seeing the MS Society letters and both the annual and bi-annual newsletters throughout my fathers prognosis. He taught me to cycle and encouraged my love for riding bikes, motorbikes and mountain bikes. Naturally, riding my bike felt like the right thing to do.
I choose Bike the UK for MS due to their close nature and relationship they have with the MS groups they meet along the routes that they ride and also the research that they help to fund. I know first-hand how much this can help every individual and their families through varying stages of tier journeys with MS.”
What training did you do before completing the ride?
“The advice I got in terms of training was to get on the bike and start spinning. That’s exactly what I did! After purchasing and setting up my bike to my liking, I started off with several smaller rides of up to 20 miles, trying to cycle on consecutive days. While doing so, I would push to do longer days (40 miles+) with adequate rest periods in between the rides. I would try and repeat this as often as possible whilst planning challenging sections of hills and plenty of split squats. A few weeks before the ride, I cycled the recommended 50+ miles on two consecutive days to prepare myself for how I would feel on the weekend of the ride.”
What is your go to bike snack?
“It’s got to be a flapjack and a packet of ready salted crisps with a can of energy drink to wash it down! This has definitely saved me from bonking one too many times whilst training!”
What is your favourite memory of the ride?
“Over the short 3 days of riding, there were so many memorable moments! I will cherish them all, so it’s very hard to pick a favourite! For me, it comes down to two experiences…
Although I rode the majority of the ride on my own, there were many instances where I rode alongside other riders. Some of these riders were affected by MS and the others just wanted the challenge of riding from Coast to Coast. Hearing and chatting about all their own stories really made the weekend for me.
The weather was bleak on the first day, raining from the late morning all the way until the evening. The scenery through the Lake District and the North Pennines, however, was second to none. With the pace of my cycling, I had plenty of opportunities to soak it up (and take lots of photos!)”
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to prospective riders for 2023?
“I would say to train a little harder and cycle a little further than you think you need to. It will allow you to enjoy the ride and the views as you cycle the route.”
What was the biggest challenge you faced?
“The first day, the group experienced some torrential rain which was definitely the biggest challenge for me. I always kept a positive mental attitude and remembered the statement that Jason Fox from ‘SAS Who Dares Wins’ said “you can only control what is in your 1m squared”. However, my 1m squared was always the one in front of me pushing me to pedal a little further even when I was struggling”.
Why have you decided to return as a route leader this year?
“As soon as I finished the ride, I promised myself that I would help in 2023. This was mainly due to the Route Leaders who were spectacular with every rider! Always positive when the going really got tough. Also, knowing how the route leaders helped facilitate the riders throughout the route and what the cause is for.”
Dan with his 2022 Sea to Sea team mates after their cycle for MS
We are thrilled to introduce you to Felix Young, the new Programme Manager for Bike the UK for MS. Felix is an avid cyclist with an extensive background in coaching and event organisation. He has been a part of the Bike the UK for MS community since its inception in 2014 and has experienced it from all angles – as a rider, a Route Leader, and a Board Trustee.
Felix shares his personal Bike the UK for MS story, including the memories, friendships, and experiences that have had a lasting impact on his life. He also explains the charity’s purpose and how it has evolved over the years, highlighting the shared sense of excitement, adventure, and camaraderie that exists throughout the MS community.
The Many Hats of Felix Young: Coaching, Event Organisation, and Cycleball
Hello everyone, allow me to re-introduce myself! I am incredibly excited to have taken up the role as the Bike the UK for MS UK Programme Manager and am looking forward to a new chapter in my Bike the UK for MS story. Working alongside James, Ella and the rest of the Bike the UK for MS team I can’t wait to build on the tremendous projects running in order to make this year’s trips the best yet and to do even more to support those with MS through the work of the charity.
My Bike the UK for MS story began all the way back on the first ever John O’ Groats to Land’s End trip in 2014 where I was a rider. The two weeks spent on the trip have had an everlasting impact with memories, friendships and experiences that will last a lifetime. The sense of excitement, adventure and camaraderie on that first trip have become part of the DNA of the charity and continues to exist through all of the rides and riders who have been part of the last nine years.
Finding Purpose and Meaning Through Bike the UK for MS
The purpose of the charity was clear for all to see, even at the very beginning, with the event held alongside the Bath branch of the MS Society. There are lots of personal benefits to take away from being part of a trip like those on Bike the UK for MS, but sharing the ride and riding for those we meet at the MS Society brings a whole new level of meaning and drive. They truly felt part of our adventure and it was with pride and thrill that we turned the pedals as our part to play in their lives.
Of course, after such a great first time, I had to come back for more and so, despite being unable to join for a full trip, I was back the following year to ride a segment of the End to End ride: the final three days from Bath down to Land’s End. It was a great way to get another taste of that Bike the UK for MS goodness.
Bike the UK for MS from a different perspective: Behind the scenes and on the board
I have also experienced Bike the UK for MS from the other side of the organisation. Having been a rider in those first two years, I was back for the third trip in 2016, this time behind the wheel of the support van as a Route Leader. Bike the UK for MS is a real community with the shared experience across the different trips from year to year; it felt amazing to be able to not only benefit from the hard work of the support teams as a rider, but also to help others benefit and experience what it was that I loved about the trips. You get to see and feel it all again through those who you are supporting.
I have also been a member of the board of trustees as James continued to nurture and develop the scope of the charity: a valuable insight into the mechanics of the organisation that goes on to facilitate the delivery on the road. It is a real honour to be part of a charity that is so keen to innovate, explore and push the boundaries of what is possible to be achieved.
Professional Experience in Cycling and Expertise in Cycleball
The rest of my working life has been in cycling across both coaching and event organisation. I was a staff member at British Cycling working as an events officer and oversaw the delivery of a wide range of events from Paracycling National Championships and BMX races through to sportives and cyclocross leagues. I am also the head coach of Avid Sport, a cycling team for young men and women based in the Bath and Bristol area. Over the years I have supported and organised cycling trips both in the UK and abroad and my life as a cyclist started with a charity bike ride at school from London to Paris.
Finally, a left-field fact about me: I am the UK’s leading expert (self-proclaimed but then it is a small field!) in Cycleball and took the first ever British team to the World Championships in 2022.
Join us in welcoming Felix to the Bike the UK for MS team with a message below.
Starting January 31st, our weekly virtual Zwift training rides are back for everyone! Whether on Zwift, keen for a social chat on Zoom or need some added motivation for a home workout, we’ve got you covered.
Join Bike the UK for MS founder, James, on Tuesday evenings at 7pm on Zoom to chat all things training, Bike the UK for MS and Zwift training for MS. Joining instructions below.
Whether you’re riding a 2023 Bike the UK for MS adventure, interested in a summer ride for MS or one of our star alumni, get involved! It’s an opportunity to meet fellow team members, ask any questions you may have and kickstart your winter training.
With the new year upon us, we decided what better way to celebrate our amazing Bike the UK for MS alumni than to dedicate our “Shine the Light” monthly section onto those that inspire us most! To start this off, we couldn’t think of anymore better than Teresa Attwood and Linda Bussey. In this blog, Linda has shared an insight into her’s and Terri’s lives, particularly life after an MS diagnosis, riding with MS and how Bike the UK for MS and the MS Society has helped them.
January Highlight – Teresa and Linda
Terri and Linda swapped the ultra-busy Peak District for Cumbria’s peaceful Eden Valley 10 years ago. The Eden Valley is a hidden gem and offered blissfully quiet rural cycling lanes and the wilderness of the Northern Pennines to explore on foot, right on their doorstep. It seemed they’d truly found their Eden.
Just four years later, Terri was diagnosed with Primary Progressive MS. A ‘lazy’ right foot initiated a trip to the local GP, who sent her for a series of tests and scans. The scans showed lesions in her spine and brain, consistent with multiple sclerosis. It was a devastating diagnosis for them both, threatening their active lifestyle.
On the recommendation of an MS nurse, Terri joined the local East Cumbria Group of the MS Society. They offered weekly exercise classes, coffee mornings, and other social gatherings. Everyone in the Group lives with MS: all are at different stages of their MS journey. The group is a tremendous source of support. Terri and Linda quickly signed up as volunteers, and soon become firm friends with many of the gang.
Three years ago, Terri became the local Group coordinator. Amongst a host of other co-ordinating activities, she produces the Group’s quarterly newsletter. She has also become involved with the Society at National level, to help give a voice to people with MS on the ground.
Meanwhile, they still manage to cycle and walk most weekends. Last year, they purchased an electric-assist tandem (known as Lill-e). This has been a game-changer for riding with MS, allowing them to continue to cycle together and get away for long weekends with friends…and ride the Sea to Sea last summer!
Linda celebrating at the summit of Bealach na Bà, North Coast 500
Why did you want to ride Sea to Sea for MS last summer?
“Because it looked like fun and the routes looked amazing! The East Cumbria Group is a massive supporter of Bike the UK for MS and has been enthusiastic to meet riders on the Sea to Sea and Land’s End to John O’Groats. As keen cyclists ourselves, we were drawn to the excitement of seeing riders completing long days in the saddle, and were impressed by the incredible camaraderie among the team and riders. We rode the C2C together in August, and then 10 days later I did the North Coast 500 on a solo bike. Between us, we managed to raise over £2,800. We were happy to know that a good chunk of that would come back to the Group, the rest going to fund research to help find a cure for MS”
North Coast 500 September team meeting with MS Society member, Margory
What training did you do before cycling across the country for MS?
“We just got out on Lill-e as much as we could, usually riding 30-50 mile days at weekends. We also did a few long weekends away, generally involving bigger rides, including cycling from home out to Scotland, and forays into Northumberland, staying at different B&Bs each night. I was also getting out as much as possible on my solo bike, seeking out the most challenging local hills”.
What is your go-to on the bike snack?
“We’re a bit ‘old school’, and generally carry a thermos of hot chocolate. We normally enjoy this with homemade oaty biscuits, flapjack, or energy bars”.
What is your favourite memory from the ride?
Sea to Sea: “it was being cheered on by friends who’d come to meet us at the top of Hartside – they certainly helped us to romp up the final summit. The scenery was stunning as we rode across the Northern Pennines in rare moments of sunshine. Completing the C2C with our friends from Edinburgh (who started as our sponsors and then became participants) was very special.
On the North Coast 500, it was climbing Bealach na Ba, the incredible view and descent off the top. And the people – what a great bunch!”
North Coast 500 team celebrating at the finish line!
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to prospective riders?
“Enjoy the ride, take time to take in the views, and remember it’s not a race”.
How does Bike the UK for MS benefit you and the East Cumbria MS Group?
“The East Cumbria Group funds a number of activities and events throughout the year. These include weekly exercise classes and monthly coffee mornings, where people with MS can meet and chat in relaxed settings. Last year, we took out group membership at Watchtree Wheelers (a charity near Carlisle that runs a cycling facility for the disabled). We then funded a couple of trips out to the Nature Reserve. Everyone enjoyed trying out the range of different bikes on the traffic-free track, and just got an immense buzz from exercising outside in the fresh air. It was great to show you can continue riding with MS.
This year, we’re also funding a weekend of adventure activities at Calvert Trust Keswick. Having a disability doesn’t stop people with multiple sclerosis from pushing their boundaries. They need to be given the opportunity to try something different in an inclusive and safe environment. The support of BTUKFMS helps us to give people with MS those opportunities”.
East Cumbria MS Group at Watchtree Cycle HireExercise Class in PenrithEast Cumbria MS Group riding with MS at Watchtree Cycle Hire
Our trips truly would not be the same without meeting the amazing members of the MS Society groups up and down the UK. Meeting with these individuals is such a highlight of every trip, and this a great way for our riders to not only learn more about multiple sclerosis (MS) but also to remind them to keep pedaling as their hard work is helping so many amazing people! As our 2022 summer season has come to an end, we wanted to reflect upon the main reason we run our trips – To support those living with MS. With an estimated 130,000 living with multiple sclerosis in the UK, it is imperative to us to support research to find a cure for the disease.
With the depths of winter creeping ever nearer, it feels like a good time to cast our minds back to the past summer season and reflect on what has been another extraordinary year for Bike the UK for MS.
