Team Betty to take on children’s hospice cycle event
Fred Thomas AKA ‘Betty Stogs’, is once again taking on Children’s Hospice South West’s (CHSW) 3 day cycle event, Ride for Precious Lives as a part of his Charity of the year fundraising.
The 212-mile cycle event is taking place 11 to 13 July 2025 and will see 120 cyclists pedal from Little Harbour hospice in St Austell, to Charlton Farm hospice in North Somerset, via Little Bridge Hospice in Barnstaple.
Fred will be returning to the event for the 5th year alongside 11 teammates making up ‘Team Betty’ who last year raised a staggering £60,000 collectively towards the record breaking £330,000 raised at the event.
Fred, who started fundraising over 14 years ago for the charity and personally raised over £150,000, returns year on year to the event for the addictive sense of camaraderie between the riders, and the sensational sense of achievement. Some of his team members include local celebrity Johnny Cowling, best friend Viv Bray, his brother-in-law Chris and nephew Matt.
Fred said: “It’s a brilliant and challenging event. I was inspired to start fundraising for Little Harbour after my nephew Matt was born with medical challenges but luckily did not need the service of the hospice, however it made me realise you never know if you will need their support as a family. Matt took part alongside me in 2024, which made the ride really special.
Once you do this ride, you’re part of the CHSW family, and you’ll never forget it. Little Bridge House, Charlton Farm and Little Harbour are all special places in my heart, especially Little Harbour. The support we receive is amazing, and we just love the ride.
Kiley Pearce, Events Fundraiser for CHSW said; “Ride for Precious Lives is always a very special weekend in our calendar of fundraising events. Everyone who takes part puts in a phenomenal effort, both cycling and fundraising.
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“If you’re feeling inspired and looking for your next challenge, we would love to welcome you to be part of the event in 2026. Our 2025 places have officially sold out, but places for 2026 are now available. Whether you’re looking for a new challenge or want to complete something amazing for your bucket list, we’d love you to join Team CHSW!”