Last weekend saw the 8th annual Pedal for The J’s charity cycling event in Chelmsford, raising money for The J’s Hospice charity. Despite a chilly start over 950 people of all ages took park in this popular event, using their grit and determination to cycle for the benefit of others. A variety of routes were on offer with most going through some of Essex’s most beautiful scenery and all routes starting and finishing at Admirals Park in the centre of Chelmsford.

As the main sponsor of the event, Beaulieu put together a strong line-up to raise as much as possible to support the work of the hospice, which provides care, respite and support to young adults with life limiting conditions and life threatening illnesses and their families. The valiant efforts of all this year’s riders have so far raised around £50,000 for this inspirational charity.

Andrew Carrington, Managing Director of Strategic Land at Countryside said: “The Pedal for the J’s once again proved to be a huge success. It is a charity that we enjoy supporting as they make such a difference to people in need of support in the local community. It was great to see so many local people getting involved and cheering everyone on. We were delighted to continue our sponsorship of the event this year and were very proud of our keen team of cyclists for both their pedalling and fundraising efforts.’

Beverley Barclay, Director of Clinical Services at The J’s Hospice, comments: “Yet again, this year saw a terrific turn-out and the support we got at our eighth Pedal event is inspirational. It’s great to know that people across Essex support us, and we couldn’t be happier with the money raised – it will really help us continue to provide the care and support our patients and their families need and rely on us for.”

The J’s Hospice provides hospice care in the home for young adults throughout Essex. Due to improvements in medical care and technology, the population of young adults with life limiting conditions is growing. At 16 years old, they have outgrown children’s services and wantage appropriate care and support. The J’s Hospice team provides a wide range of enhanced care including tailored specialist nursing, respite and advice as well as end of life care and bereavement support.

Beaulieu is making a huge impact on Chelmsford, bringing new homes and community facilities, including schools, shops, health and enhanced transport connections to the area. Residents at Beaulieu will have a range of amenities on their doorstep reducing the need for car travel and a network of cycleways and footpaths have been created to encourage healthy lifestyles – perfect for the type of active cyclist that takes part in Pedal for The J’s!

For additional details about Pedal for The J’s, please contact The J’s Hospice Events Team on 01245 475474 or by email to pedal@thejshospice.org.uk