On Saturday 24th August, Care for the Carers’ CEO Jennifer Twist set off from Bexhill to take on her fundraising challenge – cycling from East Sussex to Paris. Jennifer was cheered on her way by friends and family, including Ray Konyn of the Classic Cycle Group who came along for the first leg of the ride on his superb classic bike. 

Setting off from St Leonards

Over three days Jennifer cycled from Bexhill to Newhaven, Dieppe to Beauvais and then on. The gruelling 3-day ride involved many challenging hills, a detour to replace a broken wheel, two punctures, and cycling for hours in the stifling heat. “I had no idea how hilly the North of France was,” said Jennifer, who pedalled 161 miles to get to the French capital, “and I definitely should have planned a more direct route!”

She says: “I was very nervous about taking on this challenge; it’s been a while since I’ve gone on any long bike rides! But I was determined to do it. I wanted to do something really special for our 30th Anniversary year, helping to raise awareness of the 67,000 plus unpaid carers that live in East Sussex.”

She added that she would like to say a big thank you to everyone who supported her: “It meant a great deal.”

So far Jennifer has raised an amazing £1,042 for Care for the Carers, which will go towards vital services for local carers. She pointed out that the number of local people looking after a relative or friend continues to grow, and they are dealing with increasingly complex issues. She hopes that this challenge will help more people learn about caring, and that Care for the Carers is there to support them.

It is an independent charity supporting unpaid carers across East Sussex (See also HIP Issue 122: Creative New Support for Carers). The charity provides free practical and emotional advice and a range of services such as counselling, support groups and training.

• Jennifer would still love your support and you can donate at www.cftc.org.uk/pedalparis. Learn more about the journey on Twitter: @jennifer_twist

• For more information visit www.cftc.org.uk 
Call 01323 738390 or email info@cftc.org.uk