Steve is getting a Wiggle on to support St Catherine’s Hospice

Hospice worker Steve Webster is gearing up to swap his trusty tool kit for two wheels when he takes part in a fundraising bike ride, after seeing first-hand the difference St Catherine’s makes to patients and their families.

Dad-of-two Steve, the charity’s maintenance manager who looks after the hospice’s buildings and grounds, including the on-site Mill café and community hub, is taking on the brand new Wiggle Four Counties Cycle Ride.

St Catherine’s Hospice is the official charity partner for the 100-mile event, which takes place on May 15, setting off from Bamber Bridge before journeying through beautiful countryside in Lancashire, Merseyside, Cheshire and Greater Manchester.

Steve, who describes the maintenance team as being like the RAC or AA of the Lostock Hall hospice, signed up for the mammoth ride as soon as he heard about the challenge.

“The hospice is such a positive place, which people might not realise from the outside,” he said. “I see every day how much it helps local people with life-shortening illnesses, as well as their loved ones, so I wanted to give something back.

“I’m just playing a small part in the bigger picture, but it sounds like a fun challenge which will really help the hospice, so I wanted to get on board.”

Steve, 51, from Morecambe, started working at St Catherine’s six months ago, and has encouraged his mate Tony Kemp to join in the charity ride too.

There’s also an 82-mile option, and both routes finish back in Bamber Bridge.

Steve, who also enjoys fishing and fell walking in his spare time, said: “I cycle as a hobby and as a way to keep fit.

“I have done a couple of 100-mile rides when I was younger, but usually my evening and weekend rides are between 20 and 70 miles these days.

“I’ve done a few charity walks before but never a fundraising bike ride, so I think it will be good motivation.

“I did like the sound of the 82-mile route but I decided to push for the big one. I want to do it while I’m still fit enough and before I get any older!”

Steve is used to cycling around the Morecambe Bay area and is looking forward to the change of scenery and camaraderie on the day.

“I’m sure there will be plenty of banter and people will stick together,” he said. “It’s a serious challenge, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun.

“Some people might see it as a once-in-a-lifetime achievement, whereas for others it might open up a few avenues to get into cycling more.

“Now that the evenings are lighter and the weather’s improving, it’s the perfect time to start training. I’m doing about 75 miles a week at the moment and will be training in earnest now up until the big day on May 15.”

Registration is £33 and riders are encouraged to collect sponsorship money in recognition of their efforts.

Click here for more details and to sign up.

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