Two cyclists from Basingstoke braved the elements to complete a 51-mile bike ride from Oxford to Basingstoke on Saturday to raise money for a new autism group in the town.
Dave Clark, 36, and Peter Stonehouse, 48, finished the trial in around six-and-a-half hours, raising £550-plus in aid of the National Autistic Society’s (NAS) Basingstoke branch, which opened last month. The branch is run by a small team of volunteers who have children with autism or Asperger's syndrome.
The pair pedalled all the way to Tesco at Chineham shopping centre, where the supermarket's community champion Julie Shepherd presented them with a cheque for £100. Dave Clark, who son Joshua, nine, has autism, said: "It was great, accept for the rain. There was about two hours when the roads were covered in water.”
Peter, who seven-year-old son Harry also has autism, said: “We decided to cycle in aid of the NAS as it is a charity we both really value. Since opening a month ago, our local service already offers so much support to children with autism and their parents in the area.”
Samantha Clark, NAS Basingstoke branch officer, said: “We are so appreciative of Dave and Peter’s fundraising efforts. “It will go a long way in helping us to continue providing support, information and advice to local people affected by autism. With the right support, at the right time, people with autism can lead happy and fulfilling lives.”
To sponsor the pair, visit www.justgiving.com/nasbasingstoke
