The Project
I am a Maidstone Riverside Rotarian and I own a tandem bicycle. My Riverside friend, Norman Springett and I are both volunteer speakers for the Shelter Box charity. Early in 2019 we rode the tandem to some local events pulling an adapted trailer containing a ShelterBox. At the events we displayed and spoke about the shelter equipment contained in the box. This helped to raise awareness of the work of the charity.
The plan is for us to tow the ShelterBox behind the tandem on a 9 day journey from Maidstone to Lands End. The date to commence the ride is Wednesday 8thJuly 2020. Looking at a map of Southern England it can be seen that Maidstone sits in the heel of the country and Lands End at the toe, hence the title “Heel to Toe”.
The distance by road is roughly 360 miles and includes a route that travels up and over the windswept and wild Dartmoor, that will be a challenge!
The overall route passes through five Rotary districts. It is hoped that Rotary clubs along the way will help spread public awareness of the charity. On the penultimate day the team will visit Truro in Cornwall where ShelterBox HQ is situated. ShelterBox staff will be there to welcome them.
Riverside Rotarians Colin Norgate and Richard Pearce, each riding their own bicycles, will accompany the tandem for the entire journey.
Sue Bradburn, Doreen Springett and Shelagh Norgate will provide support in two cars and will provide the return transport from Cornwall. Fellow Riverside Rotarian, Richard Ratcliffe and his wife Pam, will be on a separate journey to Cornwall and will assist along the way.
The main aims of the project are:
1. To raise funds for the ShelterBox charity
2. To promote awareness of the work of ShelterBox and Rotary
3. To promote exercise and fitness
Please donate at https://shelterbox.charitycheckout.co.uk/pf/heeltotoe