Viking Bike Ride in Thanet hopes to raise £25,000 for British Heart Foundation charity
Published: 15:19, 12 October 2009
Updated: 09:42, 26 March 2021
The biggest and best yet - that's the verdict on Sunday's British Heart Foundation Viking Bike Ride around the Thanet coast.
So many cyclists entered on the day that it pushed participant numbers to more than 700 - a record for the fourth annual event.
Tacey Blest, BHF regional events organiser, said: "We were delighted. It was a fabulous success and people enjoyed a real community spirit throughout the day. We were hoping to raise around £25,000 to help us fight heart disease but with these numbers, let's hope we can double that figure and save more lives this Christmas."
The ride once again proved ideal for keen cyclists and families as it followed the beautiful Viking Coastal Trail, with entrants choosing to cycle all or part of the 32 mile circuit.
There were three start locations: The Roman Fort at Reculver; the Viking Ship at Pegwell Bay; and Joss Bay, Broadstairs. Riders passed some of the region's idyllic beaches and beautiful country villages.
kmfm for Thanet breakfast presenter Johnny Lewis was among the riders. He said: "Once again, it was a brilliant community event for a worthwhile cause. It brings home just beautiful the Thanet coastline is."
Pictures by Sean Dillow of It's Your Day Photography.
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Peter Barnett