Robert saddles up for London to Paris Bike Ride
St Catherine’s Hospice is gearing up to wave off supporter, Robert Ebdon, on an epic four day cycling challenge that will see him take in some of the most iconic sights from London to Paris.
London to Paris challenge
Starting in London on 21 September, Robert, from Horsham, will cycle 299 miles throughout the challenge. He’ll enjoy glorious English countryside before embarking on a ferry trip from Dover to Calais. Once he gets ‘French side’, he will enjoy cycling along quiet French country lanes and through traditional market towns, where he will have picturesque views of Northern France’s rolling green hills before finishing at the spectacular Eiffel Tower.
Family has always supported the hospice
Robert’s family have a long history of supporting St Catherine’s. His father, John Ebdon, was one of the founding members responsible for the hospice’s construction and he was also Vice-President of St Catherine’s. Robert was involved with the design of St Catherine’s Education Centre and car park and his sister, Liz, volunteered in the hospice kitchen.
Robert explains: “Following a big heart attack in 2010 and declining health ever since, my father, John was admitted to St Catherine’s for end of life care in August last year. For us, it was a real feeling of coming home. From the moment we stepped through the door of St Catherine’s, everyone we met was so reassuring and my father’s care was personalised. It was nice knowing that Dad knew where he was, even towards the end. Staff enjoyed seeing the photo albums that we brought in which included memorable photos of the hospice being built, including the Queen Mother laying the hospice’s foundation stone and Princess Diana visiting St Catherine’s.”
He adds: “I can’t think of a better cause to raise money for and as my wife very kindly splashed out on a new road bike for my 50th birthday, this challenge seemed like the perfect match. It ‘wheely’ is going to be the trip of a lifetime!”
Feeling inspired? To find out how you can sign up for this incredible challenge in 2017 please email: events@stch.org.uk or call 01293 447355.
To support Robert with his cycling challenge, please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Robert-Ebdon2
