Solway Cycle Challenge Press Release

Watchtree Nature Reserve kicks off its fundraising, accessible cycling project by launching a new cycling event for 2021; The Solway Cycle Challenge.

The Solway cycle challenge is a virtual event that uses local landmarks to explore the beautiful and varied Solway plain. The event has been put together to help raise funds for a Vello plus bike. This is an amazing piece of equipment that helps Watchtree continue to provide a fun biking experience for those with limited movement.

The event hopes to encourage all cyclists, all ages to explore our fabulous local area, spend time together with friends and family, and get outdoors! All that is needed is a bike and a helmet, and if you like, you can use a fitness tracking app like Strava so you can track your route. There are 17 landmarks in total all based in different places around the Solway Plain. Entrants can create their own routes to get to all the landmarks or use suggested routes created by Watchtree Nature Reserve. When you get to one SAY CHEESE and grab a selfie at the landmark.

Those who want a challenge can complete the route in one day, or those who just want to have leisurely rides, can do multiple short rides to complete the Challenge between the 17th of July to 30th September 2021.

Watchtree are delighted to announce that they are working with 27+ local food and drink vendors around the Solway plain. These fantastic local businesses will have various discounts or deals that only Solway Cycle Challenge ticket holders can use. (Tickets must be shown as proof). These businesses include; Aikton Arms, Holme Cultram Coffee Shop, Harrison’s Store Ltd., The Wheatsheaf Inn, Surf Bar/Baywatch, Allonby Tearooms, Sprinlea Holiday Centre, Twentymans, Bistro, The Kings Arms Inn, Pear Tree Tea Room, Greyhound Inn, R&J Mulholland & Son, The Wellington Inn, Inn at the Bush, Kirkbride Store, Bike & Bite, The Lowther Arms, Joiner’s Arms, The Bird in Hand, The Hope & Anchor, Cups & Saucers, Fairy Dust, Paramount Amusements, Silloth Café, The Ice Cream Factory and Winters

Watchtree are huge supporters of working and supporting our communities and small independent businesses, and are very excited to have the above businesses, as well as the fantastic Dodd & Co Chartered Accountants sponsoring this fundraising event.

Senga, (marketing team leader for Watchree) says “Watchtree prides itself on being one of the best accessible cycling centres in the North West. However, we are falling short on one aspect; we currently don’t have enough bikes to cater for multiple wheelchair users at one time. Unfortunately, accessible bikes are often very expensive, which is why Watchtree is commonly relied on as an accessible cycling service. We want to give the same opportunities to those with limited movement, to enjoy the cycling experience with their friends and family. This is why we need YOU to join our challenge and help us raise money to purchase the Velo Plus! From just a £3 membership rate, someone with additional needs can use our bikes for 90 minutes, spending time outdoors having fun and enjoying a bit of nature”.

All entrants receive a certificate of participation and one of Watchtree’s fabulous Cycle the Solway medals, as well as the various deals or discounts available from the approved food and drink vendors.

Tickets are now on sale! Grab yours before 1st September, by visiting the website at www.watchtree.co.uk/events (Ticket prices Adults £15, Children £12)