A dedicated group of fundraisers is preparing to pedal 200 miles across the region to celebrate a major milestone. Around 60 cyclists and support crew from Biking for Children in Care are taking on a four-day challenge. The event marks 25 years of fundraising for Become, a national charity that supports young people.
The Route and Dates
The riders will set off from Lincoln Minster on June 25. They will travel across the East Riding, through Hull and Scarborough, before finishing their journey at York Minster on June 29.
Origins of the Group
The group was originally started by social worker Gill Timmis and a small group of friends in 2001. Their very first challenge was an incredible bike ride from John o’ Groats to Land’s End. They enjoyed the experience so much that they organized another 200-mile challenge the following year. The ride has now become a popular annual event that has continued to grow ever since.
Why Become?
Gill Timmis chose the charity because of the direct support it offers care-experienced young people. Her incredible fundraising achievements have seen her raise over £1 million for the cause. These efforts have also earned her an MBE.
Gill Timmis said: "Children in care are often struggling on their own with little support. Become is there for them, fights to have their voices heard and changes the care system for the better. The bike rides are not just a physical challenge but about raising awareness of what the care system is like, how it’s in crisis and what needs to change. Biking for Children in Care is showing we care about these young people and their futures."
Impact of the Fundraising
Will Robinson, from the charity, says the money raised by the group has changed the lives of thousands of children. Will Robinson said: "We can’t thank Gill and BfCiC enough for their ongoing support over an incredible 25 years. It’s not just the huge amount they’ve raised but also for highlighting the issues facing children in care every day. They’ve enabled us to make a difference to thousands of care-experienced young people a year through our direct support services and our campaigning work. With BfCiC help we will continue to fight for children in care and young care leavers, ensuring their voices are heard to bring about the changes so desperately needed to the care system."
To support the cyclists and donate to the cause, you can visit justgiving.com/campaign/BFCIC2026.
