Watchtree Nature Reserve has launched The Solway Cycle Challenge as its latest fundraising initiative.
The challenge is a virtual event that uses local landmarks to explore the beautiful and varied Solway plain. The event has been put together to help raise funds for a VelloPlus bike.
This is a piece of equipment that will help Watchtree continue to provide a fun biking experience for those with limited movement.
The event hopes to encourage cyclists of all ages to explore their local area, spend time together with friends and family, and get outdoors.
All that is needed is a bike and a helmet, and if you like, you can use a fitness tracking app like Strava so you can track your route. There are 12 landmarks in total all based in different places around the Solway Plain.
Entrants can create their own routes to get to all the landmarks or use suggested routes created by Watchtree Nature Reserve. When you get to one you can grab a selfie at the landmark.
Those who want a challenge can complete the route in one day, or those who just want to have leisurely rides, can do multiple short rides to complete the challenge between July 17 and September 30.
Watchtree is working with more than 27 local food and drink vendors around the Solway plain. These businesses will have various discounts or deals that only Solway Cycle Challenge ticket holders can use.
Businesses offering discounts for the challenge include:
Aikton Arms, Holme Cultram Coffee Shop, Harrison’s Store Ltd., The Wheatsheaf Inn, Surf Bar/Baywatch, Allonby Tearooms, Sprinlea Holiday Centre, Twentymans, Bistro, The Kings Arms Inn, Pear Tree Tea Room, Greyhound Inn, R&J Mulholland & Son, The Wellington Inn, Inn at the Bush, Kirkbride Store, Bike & Bite, The Lowther Arms, Joiner’s Arms, The Bird in Hand, The Hope & Anchor, Cups & Saucers, Fairy Dust, Paramount Amusements, Silloth Café, The Ice Cream Factory and Winters.
Senga, marketing team leader for Watchtree said: “Watchtree prides itself on being one of the best accessible cycling centres in the North West. However, we are falling short on one aspect; we currently don’t have enough bikes to cater for multiple wheelchair users at one time.
“Unfortunately, accessible bikes are often very expensive, which is why Watchtree is commonly relied on as an accessible cycling service. We want to give the same opportunities to those with limited movement, to enjoy the cycling experience with their friends and family.
“This is why we need you to join our challenge and help us raise money to purchase the VeloPlus. From just a £3 membership rate, someone with additional needs can use our bikes for 90 minutes, spending time outdoors having fun and enjoying a bit of nature”.
All entrants receive a certificate of participation and one of Watchtree’s Cycle the Solway medals, as well as the various deals or discounts available from the approved food and drink vendors.
Tickets are now on sale. Grab yours before September 1, by visiting the website at www.watchtree.co.uk/events
Tickets are priced at £15 for adults £15, and £12 for children.
