Northampton Saints and Cobblers stars get in a spin for Cynthia Spencer Hospice

Professional Northampton sportsmen have shown it is still possible to support Cynthia Spencer Hospice on two wheels despite coronavirus forcing its annual cycle ride to go virtual.

Saints and Cobblers players put their fitness to the test on static bikes to support Cycle4Cynthia, which was supposed to be taking place at Lamport Hall this weekend.

Covid-19 means the mass event has been cancelled but riders can still raise vital funds for the charity by completing their own solo ride anytime, anywhere during September while still paying the entry fee.

Hospice fundraising manager John Helm said: “The decision to cancel our usual annual gathering for the safety of all those involved was not taken lightly, but we’re thrilled that, in making it a month-long, virtual ride, some of our top sportsmen have been able to participate in their own unique way.

“With half of the month still to go, there’s plenty of time for those with two wheels to follow suit and ride our routes when they wish or create their own route in their neighbourhood, which will hopefully go to recouping some of the quarter of a million pounds we’ve lost this year because of the absence of so many of our fundraising activities.

“Of course the other benefit of this change of plan is a rather selfish one, because instead of me and my team fretting over how a poor weather forecast might affect our turnout, it really doesn’t matter whether it's raining, hailing or sleeting on Sunday, as riders can simply just pick a different day to pedal!”.

Harry Mallinder and James Grayson, who respectively opened the last two years’ Cycle4Cynthia events, and England full-back, George Furbank, were among the Saints players to get involved.

Not to be outdone by their sporting neighbours, Northampton Town players lept into the static saddle too, including captain Nicky Adams and defender Joe Martin.

The hospice needs to raise more than £1m every year to help provide specialist end-of-life palliative care for its patients as well as vital support for their families.

Cycle4Cynthia has swelled the charity’s coffers by more than £600k over the last 16 years but the team hopes riders will still get involved this year and post pictures on social media.

Entry is now £10 for adults, £5 for children and £25 for families while all riders will still receive a medal, regardless of when and where they choose to ride. For more information visit cycle4cynthia.co.uk.