Hillbillies aux bicylettes

Members of the Haddenham Hillbillies Cycle Club set themselves the very challenging task of cycling from Thame to its twin town of Montesson in France, as a fundraising event in aid of Florence Nightingale Hospice at Stoke Mandeville. Their aim was to raise to £9,131 for the Hospice — 9,131 being the number of days the hospice has been open during its first 25 years.

The team set off from Thame Town Hall early in the morning on Wednesday 17th September, and needed to average at least 90 miles per day to reach Montesson by late afternoon on Friday 19th September.

Despite a few punctures en route, the group arrived at Montesson Town Hall at 6.30pm (French time) on Friday, to a fanfare welcome from the local crowd and supporters of the team!

By this stage, they had covered 309 miles in three days.

Sincere thanks go to their wonderful support team (Michelle Finch, Liz Lock and Nick Lock) who travelled by van from Haddenham providing refreshments, encouragement/support and bike spares when needed.

Montesson Twinning committee laid on a reception for the cyclists during which the Town Mayor presented the team with rosettes and a specially commissioned plaque to commemorate their ride — the plaque will go on display at The Kings Head pub with a duplicate also on display in Montesson.

"The reception committee played the British national anthem as we cycled into the town square at Montesson" said David Finch "and it was all rather moving!"

The Hillbillies have currently raised £8554.00, which represent 94% of their £9131 target. Please consider helping them to achieve their total target. Sponsorship can still be pledged by visiting their make-a-donation site.

The Montesson folk were so impressed with the achievement that they are now considering putting together a team to travel the route in the reverse direction next year, although they may do it over a week rather than just three days!!

Every member of the Haddenham Hillbillies group should feel hugely proud of their achievement! They are all amazing!!

(Click on any image to see an enlarged version)