On the first Sunday of September, hundreds of cyclists once again saddled up for the biggest cycling event in South Cumbria. I could easily be the peloton in the Tour de France, until you realise that many in the field are under four feet tall or riding on the back of Dad's bike. This is the Tour de Furness - not so much the world's toughest cycle race, but more a nice leisurely ride for all the family. Since the first event was organised in 1995 by local cyclist Bill Bartlett, the charity ride has raised thousands for St Mary's and other good causes. In 2011 more than 360 riders lined up at Roose Conservative Club, in Barrow, for the event.

On 18th January, Zoe Guest from St Mary's Hospice was presented with £7700 by members of the Furness Rotary Club, which had been raised by event participants. This is in addition to money which is to be received directly from Just Giving from riders, which will make this amazing total even bigger!

A very big thank you goes out to Event co-ordinator Bill Nickson, and the team from Rotary Club of Furness, who organise the event every year. It has become a major event in the local calendar and the team at St Mary's cannot thank them enough for all their support this year and in the past.