Get saddled up to Cycle for Life

Cancer Support France would love Connexion readers to join their annual fund-raising Cycle for Life event, which is scheduled to take place in June.

Cyclists will follow La Flow Vélo, a dedicated route from the Atlantic, through the Charente, and into the Périgord.

It starts on Wednesday, June 3, at Rochefort, Charente-Maritime, with cyclists stopping at Saint-Savinien, Cognac, Angoulême and Nontron, finishing on Sunday, June 7, at Thiviers, Dordogne, for lunch.

Last year saw 25 riders take part, raising nearly €8,000. It was the first time for Hazel Turner and Geoff Hunt, and both plan to do it again this year. Mr Hunt said: “The whole event was superbly organised. Our bags were carried for us, we were fed and watered during the day, and ate in well-chosen restaurants in the evenings.

“We normally do our cycling holidays on our own but thoroughly enjoyed the company of other riders. The pace was gentle and followed cycle paths or quiet roads. We recommend the Cycle for Life ride to anyone who enjoys cycling.”

Paul Broach cycled for three days last year but plans to do all five this time.

He said: “The route follows the Charente river and sounds lovely, with overnight stops in interesting places. The event is aimed at all abilities and the camaraderie is fantastic.”

CSF supports English-speaking cancer patients and their friends and families by allocating them a volunteer to offer linguistic and practical help, information and emotional support.

There is a network of 17 local CSF associations across France.

National president Pat Lockett said: “Joining us in the Cycle for Life will help us raise awareness, while you have fun and keep fit. If you cannot ride, do consider making a donation through alvarum.com/cancersupportfrance/cycleforlife-2020.”

For details of the ride, visit facebook.com/activityforlife, and more about CSF at cancersupportfrance.org