A WOMAN from Westbury has taken part in an ambitious fundraising bike ride around Wiltshire after this year’s Prudential RideLondon was cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Frankie Simpkins completed a 100-mile cycle around Wiltshire on Sunday 16th August – the day Prudential RideLondon was originally due to take place – to raise money for The Institute of Cancer Research, London.
Frankie, who works as a musician in healthcare, performing in care homes and hospitals, chose to support The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) after several members of her family were diagnosed with the disease, including her aunt Gill, who died from cancer a few years ago.
Frankie’s aunt Kate is also undergoing treatment for stage four bowel cancer, and the cycle ride had extra significance for Frankie as she used Kate’s bike and kit to complete the challenge.
Frankie’s circular route started and ended just outside Westbury and took her through Avebury, famous for its stone circles, before passing through Corsham where she grew up.
Frankie has already smashed her fundraising target and has so far raised over £1,800.
Frankie said “I turn 30 this year so I really wanted to do a big fundraiser, and it was actually my auntie Kate who suggested I do RideLondon as she’d done it in the past. I’m not a cyclist at all – the most I’d done in the past was a couple of miles and when I tried using the clip-on shoes I immediately fell off – so this is a huge challenge for me. I get quite nervous cycling, but I think the fact I’m doing it on my auntie’s bike will help remind me what it’s all for.
“After RideLondon got cancelled, I still wanted to do something to raise money. People have been so generous with their sponsorship and I think it’s now more important than ever to support the ICR. Cancer has ripped through my family and it continues to do so. I’ve seen what it does to patients and their families and the sooner we can defeat it the better.
“I’m really chuffed to have completed the challenge – especially without any injuries or crashes! And it is such a fantastic amount that has been raised for the charity – the total shot up by about £400 on the day! And importantly, I hope this has helped to raise some awareness for ICR.”
Although she had previously organised her own fundraising events – including leading a singing session in a local care home – restrictions on gatherings mean she’s had to think outside the box and Frankie has now set up a specialised bakery for dogs, with the proceeds from all cakes sold during August going towards her fundraising.
Frankie’s work has also suffered as a result of the coronavirus outbreak, but the self-employed musician said training for the ride has helped her cope with the current situation as it takes her mind off work worries.
The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) said, “We’re so grateful for Frankie’s support, which will help us accelerate our research and make up for the research hours lost during the pandemic.”
You can support Frankie at: www.justgiving.com/frankie-simpkins1
