Suffolk residents can show their support for firefighters past and present by signing up to the 2022 Fire Ride cycling challenge, which is taking place on Sunday, July 10, 2022.
The event is in its 9th year, having been started by Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service in 2013, in aid of The Fire Fighters Charity, with a minimum of £ 17 from each entrance fee – which is £ 20 in advance or £ 30 on the day – going directly to the charity, in order to enable them to continue to be there for fire service staff in their hour of need.
2022 Fire Ride cycling challenge
A choice of rides is available, as participants can select from either a 50 km or 100 km route
A choice of rides is available, as participants can select from either a 50 km or 100 km route, making it perfect for new cyclists, those looking to get back into the saddle or seasoned pros.
Riders will set off from Ipswich East Fire Station at Ransomes Europark, before taking in Suffolk’s stunning scenery, as they travel through Brightwell, Earl Soham, Framlingham, Wickham Market, Woodbridge, Newbourne and Levington, in the United Kingdom (UK).
Raising funds for The Fire Fighters Charity
Jon Lacey, the Chief Fire Officer for Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, said “It’s fantastic news that the Fire Ride is back again, and I hope that we can make this year’s cycle bigger and better than ever. As well as being a really fun event, it’s also set to raise some vital funds for The Fire Fighters Charity, who offer personalized support to both former and serving fire staff, and their loved ones, to help with their physical and mental health, as well as any other difficulties that they may face.”
Jon Lacey adds, “If you’d like to show your thanks to the fire service for doing all it can to protect you, signing up to take part in the ride is a brilliant way to lend your support and will be much appreciated by me and my colleagues.”
Limited edition finishers medals to be awarded
On completion of the cycle, limited edition finishers medals will be awarded
On completion of the cycle, limited edition finishers medals will be awarded, and refreshments will be served by the Salvation Army. The friends and families of participants are also invited to stay for a drink and take a behind the scenes tour of Ipswich East Fire Station – making it a great day out for both cyclists and spectators.
Cllr Andrew Reid, the UK Cabinet Member for Public Health and Public Protection, commented “Cycling is a wonderful way to keep fit and supports our council’s ambition to look after the health and well-being of the people of Suffolk. Our county was fortunate enough to host the Women’s Tour recently, which I hope will have inspired people to take up their own challenge and give this year’s Fire Ride a go.”
Cycling event for a good cause
Cllr Andrew Reid adds, “It doesn’t matter whether you’re just starting out or are a champion cyclist, please do get on your bike, in aid of a very worthy cause. I know that a lot of work has gone on to stage this event and I’d like to thank everyone from Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service involved in its organization.”