Vale of Belvoir Viking Challenge riders raise Â£28k for causes

Colin Shearer, chairperson of the Viking Challenge Committee (2nd from right), presents Redmile head teacher Julie Hopkins (centre), and Paul Lawless and Louise Knight (right) members of the Stroke Association, with their cheques. Also pictured are children from Redmile School and Helen Snow (2nd from left), for the Peter Snow Award which was awarded to Mark Beeston. His son Max accepted on his father's behalf PHOTO: Supplied

Riders who took to the saddle for last year's Viking Challenge charity cycle have helped raise a whopping Â£28,000 to be split between two worthy causes.

More than 1,350 riders took part in the 2016 event, setting off on a 30km or tougher 50km ride along the Viking Way.

Proceeds have been split between Redmile Primary School and the Stroke Association.

Mark Beeston won the Peter Snow Award for his generousity over many years providing much of the valued sustenance served to the riders on the day of the event.

Head teacher Julie Hopkins said: “The 2016 Viking Challenge was an incredible event, with an amazing number of participants visiting our small village school.

“We’re very proud to host the event and are grateful to all those who work tirelessly to raise essential funds towards the enriched learning experiences at Redmile School. Thank you to you all.”

Preparations are already underway for the 2017 Viking Challenge, which takes place on Sunday, October 1. This year’s charity partner is The Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, the largest locally based environmental and conservation charity in the county.

For more information and how to enter visit www.vikingchallenge.org.uk