Clare Hampson
European Adventure
Fundraising for Northampton Hope Centre
Story
After a successful 40 mile sportive in July, I've been persuaded to stretch slightly further in support of the homeless in Northampton, and cycle 270 miles over 4 days from Northampton to Ypres, Belgium. But good news, I have less than 7 weeks to prepare! I think that's good news.
The route
- Northampton University to Christ College Cambridge
- Cambridge to Harwich, arriving at the ferry terminal for an overnight sailing to The Hook of Holland
- Along the coast to Middelburg
- Middelburg into Belgium and stopping off at Passendale battlefields & Tyne Cot Cemetery, arriving at Ypres, the finishing point, celebrated with a reception with the local council dignitaries followed by the last post ceremony under the Menin Gates
The cause
Northampton Hope Centre helps those in need, first with urgent things like food, and then with gaining employment. There's many people who need help and the centre needs tens of thousands of pounds each month to do its mission. It's been doing it for over 40 years.
Frequently asked questions
Q. Isn't it a long way? Aren't you a bit under-prepared?
A. Well hopefully not as the plan is do 4 bursts of around 20 miles each day, breaking it up a fair bit.
Q. Am I paying your travel costs?
A. No, I have paid my travel costs, your donations will go straight to the charity, and if you give JustGiving the relevant information, they will claim the GiftAid back on the charity's behalf
Q. Are you cycling across the sea? The sea's in the way.
A. No, I'm going on a ferry. No, I'm not cycling on the deck on the ferry. Yes, I'm sorry you feel short-changed on this. Please give money even if I'm not using a pedalo to cross the North Sea.
Q. Do I have to use JustGiving? They seem suspicious.
A. JustGiving won't use your details for anything except claiming tax back if you're eligible to do so. They keep a small amount of the money raised for their costs, rather than selling your details to marketers or anything. If you really don't want to use them, you can give the money to me and fill out a paper form for the donation and I can hand it in on your behalf.