A gentle, relaxing Sunday afternoon spent with pleasant live music, sumptuous canapés and Prosecco is in stark contrast to the strenuous efforts about to be undertaken by three brave novice cyclists from Northumberland.
The three businesswomen all from the Alnwick area are undertaking the gruelling 240 miles in three days London to Paris women’s only cycle challenge on 6th September. Before that however, they will each have to raise sponsorship money for women’s cancer charities. As well as their huge commitment to training for the ride, the ladies have pledged to raise £1600 each in order to undertake the challenge. Monies raised will be equally shared amongst Breast Cancer Care, Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust and Ovarian Cancer Action.
The three in training cyclists, marketing expert Avril Scott from Foxton, Utility Warehouse consultant Jacqueline Brewster from Alnwick and Jane McHugh, hotelier from the Red Lion in Alnmouth discussed the idea of the ride at a network business meeting at Alnmouth Golf Club where they reguarly meet.
Their first fundraising event entitled “Lazy Sunday Afternoon” will take place in Alnmouth’s Hindmarsh Hall on Sunday 6th May and will include drinks on arrival with canapés and an afternoon of entertainment provided by musicians Josie McDonough and Phil Smith.
Josie began her singing career in the sixties recording for Decca under the name of Truly Smith. Her singles are still much sought after by Northern Soul fans. In the seventies she switched careers to teaching but was tempted out of musical retirement to join other Newcastle musicians to form the Legendary Sixties Band as their lead singer. Phil is better known to many people locally as a Theatre Director and occasional Tour Manager. He has also been a guitarist, singer and songwriter for more than 35 years, playing both in bands and as a solo acoustic performer. Josie coaxed Phil back into playing live last year and they’ve quickly forged a great musical relationship and an eclectic mix of songs to delight and entertain.
Jacqueline said; “This is a great way to show your support for our cycle ride. It will be a lovely relaxing day and a total contrast to the gruelling ride that we are training for. It’s very tough at the moment as we’re riding through our beautiful countryside in all weathers but if it helps to save just one life, the effort will be well worth it.”
Tickets for the fundraising event are £25 (including canapes & fizz on arrival)
Please purchase tickets via the Red Lion: Tel: 01665 830584