Why Are We Doing This?

The original bike ride was set up as part of fund raising efforts to build a new village hall but proved so popular that we are still going! The funds we’ve raised since the Village Hall was built are always used to improve the facilities at the Village Hall itself and the Playing Fields. We are extremely proud that over the life of the Bike Ride, over 50% of the funds raised has gone to the other charities nominated by the Bike Ride teams. The financial support the event has been able to give to the Village Hall has added enormously to the community spirit of Crudwell and surrounding villages and all of us who are live in the area.

It’s not just about the fund raising though. Running the Bike Ride brings the residents of Crudwell and the villages nearby together. The Bike Ride Committee involves people of all ages and talents, but there are many others who help on the lead up to the Bike Ride and on the day itself. There are approximately 1500 people living in the local area, of whom 200 are involved in some way or another in supporting the Bike Ride.

The Village Hall is used for a wide range of groups and events. Crudwell Pre School has used it since it opened in late 1993 for three days a week. They have added their own play area and the Pre School has an Outstanding rating from OFSTED.

Other groups are

  • Crudwell Short Mat Bowls Club
  • Crudwell Badminton Club
  • 1st Crudwell Scouts
  • Crudwell Cubs and Beavers
  • Tai Chi
  • Crudwell Ladies
  • North Wiltshire Village Flower Club
  • MDFAS (Malmesbury Decorative & Fine Arts Society)

The Bike Ride also helps in the promotion of cycling – from Spring until the event itself  the lanes around the area are busy with cyclists of all ages building up their fitness and riding the route. It’s been especially encouraging to see more families and school teams in recent years.

There’s always a barbecue and live music on the Saturday evening – even although there are some hardy souls still clocking up the laps. The focus of the Bike Ride has always been- “it’s a bike ride, not a race”, and to go out, get fit and enjoy the fun and camaraderie of the whole weekend.