Inspired Villages complete a 7,500-Mile Charity Cycling Challenge in aid of PROSTaid UK

Inspired Villages has announced the launch of its Inspired 7,500 Mile Challenge.

The six-day event, running from the 7th to the 13th of April, is in support of PROSTaid UK and aims to raise awareness for early detection of prostate cancer.

The event will see colleagues, residents, and friends of Inspired cycling 600 miles in 6 days, from the southernmost village in Exeter, finishing on Saturday 13^th April at the most northern, Gifford Lea in Tattenhall.

Meanwhile other residents and colleagues will make up the remaining 6,900 miles on static bikes, set up at each village, on foot, in wheelchairs, and even on horseback!

On the final day at Gifford Lea, TV fitness instructor, Mr Motivator will also be on site to encourage residents, colleagues, and the local community to clock up more miles and welcome the cycling team to the village.

Speaking about the event, Jamie Bunce, CEO of Inspired Villages shared:

“The whole challenge is inspired by my close friend, Justin Butlin, who sadly lost his battle with prostate cancer on 27th February 2024. At just 53 it’s a devastating for his family and all those close to him.

“Justin was hugely passionate about raising awareness of the disease and I’m honoured to be riding in his memory. He was so supportive of the challenge, and I know I speak for myself and all those taking part that we’re humbled to support Justin’s legacy and to raise awareness of this all too common disease which is robbing families of fathers, brothers, husbands, and sons the world over.

“Since launching the challenge earlier this year, I’ve been blown away by the number of people getting in touch to pledge their support and get involved. We have a colleague walking almost 60 miles from a village in Warwickshire to our Nottingham-based head office. There’s a group of colleagues running 16 miles – more than a half marathon each and so much more. It’s been an inspiring demonstration that when we come together with a shared purpose, amazing things can be achieved.”

“Mr Motivator is a shining example of how to keep fit no matter your age and his supportive, positive and encouraging outlook on exercise is why we are so pleased to welcome him to Gifford Lea to get residents ready for the bike ride’s grand finale and help the riders with their all-important cool-down stretch.”

Inspired Villages, backed by Legal & General, has set an ambitious target of raising more than £20,000 over the week through participation and fundraising at each of the villages, as well as its Just Giving page.

Inspired Villages' Commitment to Wellness

The 'Inspired 7,500 Mile Challenge' is one of many wellness initiatives undertaken by Inspired Villages this year. Central to this campaign is a dedicated effort to raise awareness and promote early detection of diseases, such as prostate cancer. Throughout the challenge, Inspired Villages will promote PSA testing, a vital blood test for prostate cancer detection.

Inspired Villages remains steadfast in its commitment to improving the wellbeing and longevity of the UK's over-65 population. By advocating for healthier lifestyles, Inspired Villages seeks to redefine ageing by emphasising the importance of self-care and disease prevention through positive health interventions.