TWO amateur cyclists have completed their first long distance cycle, a 165-mile charity bike ride from Weymouth to Erith on 31st May to 1st June, in memory of their father-in-law, Les Heath, who passed away at Greenwich & Bexley Community Hospice last year.

The fundraisers, Gavin Dunsmore (36) from Erith and Jason Marsh (42) from Dartford, raised a fabulous £1,603 for the Hospice that cares for over 2,500 local people each year.

“Les was transferred from Guy’s Hospital to Greenwich & Bexley Community Hospice in June 2012 and although he was not with the Hospice for very long, the care they provided for him, and for us as a family, and are still providing, is outstanding,” said Gavin.

“We didn’t realise what important work they do until we were under their care.

“After Les passed we decided that we would like to do something in his memory and for the Hospice. Les was the best father-in-law you could have asked for. He loved holidaying with the family at Weymouth beach and he loved to cycle, so this seemed like the obvious thing to do.

“Neither of us were cyclists, we started going out on our mountain bikes but soon realised that we would need road bikes.  Once we bought these the training really started at the beginning of this year. 

“On the drive down to Weymouth we realised what a task we had taken on when we saw all the hills! Jason couldn’t stop talking about them!

“We started off from Weymouth to pass the New Forest, which was very hilly and hard going but beautiful.  The standout moment for us was seeing the road sign ‘Farnham 25 miles’ as we knew day 1 was almost complete! 

“Passing through Weybridge on day 2, we bumped into the local town crier and had our photo taken with him, then on through Richmond Park and saw all the deer’s and then followed the Thames Cycle Path to pass a few of the great London landmarks like Battersea Power Station, Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, London Eye and Tower Bridge, then home.

“We were greeted by our families with a banner made by our children, Jude and Noah, and Madeleine and Lydia, which was the best sight of all.

“We’re just really grateful to everyone who has supported and sponsored us so far, it is really appreciated.”

Stacey Lewis, Head of Fundraising at Greenwich & Bexley Community Hospice, said: “Gavin and Jason did brilliantly. They are not experienced cyclists so to complete 165 miles in just 2 days is a fantastic achievement, we’re so proud of them.”

To sponsor the team, visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/lesdreamteam6 

- Greenwich & Bexley Community Hospice provides free specialist end of life care for people with life-limiting illnesses as well as providing support for their families, friends and carers.