Discover how our riders raised £50,000 in 2023 for MS awareness and support, empowering MS Support Groups across the UK.
#Move4MS
In January, join us for #Move4MS as we aim to walk, run, swim and cycle 130,000km – one for each of the people living with MS in the UK.
MS Stories: East Cumbria MS Society Group
Over the years, Bike the UK for MS has visited many different MS Society groups, having supported and been supported by them across many of our trips throughout the whole history of the charity. One such group is the East Cumbria MS Society Group. This is a group we have met a number of times across both our Lands End to John O’Groats trips and Sea to Sea trips. Through these meetings we build a meaningful bond with local groups, adding extra motivation and meaning to our riders efforts.
Sea to Sea 2023 Riders meeting the East Cumbria MS Society Group – photo credits: Ella MilesOur most recent visit to the East Cumbria Group was at Penrith on the end of the first day of riding on our Sea to Sea trip, at the amazing Penrith Rugby Club who kindly let us stay overnight. The MS Society group were kind enough to share a bit about Bike the UK for MS within their most recent newsletter. Discover more about the local group, alongside some of our riders and ride leaders stories (and some amazing photos) within the Newsletter, which they have kindly let us share on here…
It is a highlight of our rides to meet and spend time with these local MS Societies, and to see the crucial work they do for those living with MS in their communities. For anyone looking to discover more about the East Cumbria MS Society group you can find them through the MS Society website; East Cumbria Group | MS Society. Additionally, if you are looking for info on your local MS Society group you can find them through the MS Societies local search tool.
Finally, discover more about our Sea to Sea trip for 2024 here, your 2024 adventure awaits!
10 Years of Bike the UK for MS – Throwback to 2014
June 2024 will mark 10 years since the first Bike the UK for MS trip as 12 riders took on John O’ Groats to Land’s End. We wanted to take this chance to cast back to memories of the trips that have brought the charity to where it is today and to celebrate the achievements and challenges overcome by the hundreds of riders who have been part of Bike the UK for MS over the past decade.
The 2014 Ride
With eight Bike the US for MS alumni joining four riders from the University of Bath the first Bike the UK for MS trip was a true hybrid of the two organisations. One of the UK-based riders, Emily, shares some of her memories from the trip:
“My favourite day was definitely the first day up in Scotland. I’ve done a lot riding in my time but never in Scotland and riding along the country roads, next to huge highland cows with breathtaking coast views was just spectacular. We ended the day at Bettyhill Camp site and spent the evening skimming stones and watching the sun set on the rocks – a perfect day!”
“The biggest surprise was how close we became as a team. Although cliché, I really couldn’t have done it without the support of the other riders. Living together for all that time and experiencing the highs and lows was amazing and has led to life-long friendships!”
“The toughest challenge for me was definitely the mental strain of the harder days down south. It definitely pushed me to my limit and I remember a few moments where I really drew on the strength of the team around me as I turned a corner to be faced with yet another hill on wet, windy days in Cornwall!”
“The standout memory for me was our day in the Lake District. Kirkstone pass didn’t disappoint and although tough was a spectacular climb and a real achievement to cross. As a celebration, we then descended in a slightly delirious state to the furthest corner of Lake Windermere unaware that the campsite was actually quite a few miles further along the road, outside of Windermere itself.”
“We were just settling in to enjoy a sunny evening at the lakeside when we received a call from our route leader asking where we were. The uphill 30 minute climb to camp proved rather challenging and I’m sure we were quite a spectacle as we attempted to navigate the Windermere tourists whilst exhausted and slightly disoriented! But it was those moments riding together as a team at the end of a hard day knowing we had achieved something together that were so special.”
“It was an amazing two weeks – breath-taking, mentally and physically challenging but so rewarding. I can still remember that feeling of pride, relief, joy as we crossed the finish line at Land’s End.”
University RAG Partnerships with Bike the UK for MS
Over the years, Bike the UK for MS has worked with many University RAG groups, having students from a number of different universities riding with us. Looking ahead to the 2024 Trips, we are excited to continue this fantastic partnership, working with RAG groups from Manchester, Nottingham, and Loughborough Universities.
What is RAG?
But what is University RAG? RAG is an organisation through which students can discover and tackle amazing challenges whilst raising money for good causes. For example, the university RAG will often run RAG fairs with a number of challenges and causes represented. Ultimately, these fairs provide a place where students can take the opportunity to visit a number of different charity stands to discover the causes they could support and the adventures they could tackle.
Manchester Get into Volunteering Fair
These RAG Fairs are a highlight of our off season, getting to travel out to different universities and meet some amazing people, looking to tackle the country by bike whilst raising money for Multiple Sclerosis Research and Awareness. This year we have been lucky enough to attend the Manchester Get into Volunteering fair, spending the day in the Student’s Union promoting our rides for 2024. It was great to see the interest across the board, from our 14 days of riding Land’s End to John O’Groats ride to our 3 day Sea to Sea trip.
Loughborough RAG
Looking ahead, we will be in Loughborough for the Loughborough University Unlock an Activity Night on the 9th October! This is a fantastic opportunity to share our new Loughborough RAG specific trip for 2024, that being the iconic London to Paris Route. After multiple years of students joining us on our NC500 trips, we can’t wait to tackle this new challenge with them!
If any Loughborough students are interested please do come down and visit us. We’d love to share more information on the challenge with you, discuss bikes or even just say hello!
If any university RAG groups or clubs are interested in partnering with us to have riders joining our trips, please do get in touch at info@biketheukforms.org, we’d love to hear from you.
Local Cyclocross Race donates to Bike the UK for MS
Bike the UK for MS was the official charity partner of Round 1 of the Western Cyclocross League on Sunday 24th September in Frome with organizer Avid Sport donating £1 per rider entry to Bike the UK for MS.
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!
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.
Cycling Lôn Las Cymru: A Spectacular 4-Day Adventure through Wales
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.
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 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.
We were fortunate to have some incredible generous hosts along the route including Canolfan Gymunedol Morlo (Gwelfor Community Centre), Porthmadog Football Club, Llanidloes Rugby Club and Kensington Baptist Church. Being hosted allows us to keep our costs to minimum and put more funds towards MS projects.
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
- Full Lôn Las Cymru Route Map
A Challenging Yet Rewarding Experience
Climbing Challenges
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.]
How Dan Derbyshire’s Father Inspired Him to Cycle for MS
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.”
Meet Felix Young, the New Bike the UK for MS Programme Manager
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.
A-Z Fundraising Ideas for MS: 26 Creative Ways to Raise Money for Charity
Discover 26 creative fundraising ideas to fight Multiple Sclerosis with our A-Z list. Make a difference today!