On Your Bike cancelled due to shortage of volunteers

ON Your Bike will not be held this year. The annual cycling fundraiser in Sonning Common did not have enough people to organise it.

The event, which first took place in 2007, is for people of all ages and abilities who ride routes of six, 12 or 20 miles.

The proceeds are divided between the village primary school’s parents’ association and other local charities such as the Ways and Means Trust in Peppard and the Sonning Common community first responders.

On Your Bike was not held in 2020 or 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic but it was back last year when almost 380 people took part and £2,850 was raised.

Kathryn Fell, one of the organisers, said: “We made the decision as a team not to run it and take a rest because it has been difficult to secure a date and we’ve had parents move on from the committee because their children have gone to secondary school. It’s a big team effort to organise it. If we’re going to do it, we’ll do it properly, not half- heartedly, which is why we decided not to run it this year.

“It is always a really popular event and it was great to have it back last year after covid. It’s a really nice community event. A lot of children learn to ride their bikes and then the event gives them the confidence to ride around. It also gets everyone outside in the fresh air.

“It’s a shame to not have it this year but quite a lot of people have come forward to help and I’m confident it will be back next year.

“We’re trying to build a new strong team with the right skill sets. We’re always happy to have a few more come forward. It’s good to have backup in case someone’s circumstances change or they’re poorly on the day. We need marshals who get a lunchbox and are well taken care of.”

The organisers are planning a new fundraising activity in the autumn.