Grab your walking boots or dust off your Lycra cycling shorts and join us at Rutland Water.
Leicestershire and Rutland Crohn’s and Colitis UK group hold an annual cycle ride and walk around the beautiful Rutland water. This local fundraiser has grown and grown over the years and has helped raise a lot of money for our local group as well as the national funds.
Due to its ever increasing success, the head office of Crohn’s and Colitis UK wants to make it open to everybody in the country. We are extremely proud of how successful it has become.
The Walk
The shorter walk starts and ends at Barnsdale, following a “there and back” route to Whitwell, approximately 2 miles. The longer walk continues to Sykes Lane and back, a distance of approximately 5 miles.
You will start near the Barnsdale Arboretum and pass the beautiful Barnsdale Woods, which in early May is carpeted in bluebells.
For young (and young at heart) walkers, there is a magical “Fairies, Pixies and Pirates” theme to the walk – so why not come along in costume, and have your face painted before you start the walk?
The Bike Ride
17 miles around the lake, or 25 to include the peninsula, this bike ride starts and ends at Whitwell, with refreshment stops at Normanton and on the peninsula. Maps will be provided on the day, and aside from a very short section of the route, the ride follows designated, traffic free cycle paths.
Both rides will take you through the bluebell woods. You will also pass by the stunning nature and bird-watching reserves boasted by Rutland Water, as well as the ancient and beautiful Normanton Church – and there are plenty of pubs along the route for that all-important pint and pie, should you fancy a break.
You must register in advance to take part in the bike ride, and then Check In with our team on the day – any time between 10am and 12noon – at Whitwell Car Park.
If you would like to hire a bike, this should be arranged direct through Outdoor Adventure on 01780 460060. They can supply adult and child bikes and helmets, as well as infant seats, trailers etc. They have also kindly agreed to offer a 15% discount to anyone participating in this event, so make sure you mention it when you book.
Please note that Crohn’s and Colitis UK are not involved in cycle hire in any way, so any questions regarding this should be made directly to Outdoor Adventure on the above phone number.
Please arrive and register any time between 10am and 12noon – at Barnsdale Car Park
If you wish to take part in a helper role rather than a walker or cyclist then we would like to hear from you. There are many roles you could possibly help with ranging from handing out refreshments, signing people in or even handing out maps. Even if you can only help for 5 minutes, it really helps ease the load. If you wish to help then please go online and register here: www.nacc.org.uk/content/general/CCwalkVolunteer or contact us on the details below.
You must pre-register for this event
Online registration: www.nacc.org.uk/content/general/CCwalk
It is a wonderful day for everyone involved, full of fun and excitement. So do not miss out on the first national walk of the year. We need to make Leics & Rutland proud by raising more money than we have ever done.
We look forward to seeing you in May