Organisers of the Wooler Wheel cycle sportive events in Northumberland have selected MHM as their Charity of the Year for their rides throughout the year, and on Saturday some of the volunteers from our ‘Being Active Matters’ project in Northumberland were up bright and early to help out at the first event of the year.

The event had four routes of different lengths for all abilities, taking in the stunningly beautiful landscapes of North Northumberland and the Scottish borders. Some of our volunteers were also taking part - Tracy Coxon, who helps out on an ad hoc basis with promoting the Being Active Matters project, was the first woman to finish the 60km ride!

The day had a great turnout, with more than 270 people riding in the races and lots of family and friends supporting them along the way. Our volunteers were very busy handing out flyers and chatting to people from across the country about what Mental Health Matters do. The ‘Being Active Matters’ project which the riders are raising money for aims to connect people who are struggling with their mental health with volunteer ‘buddies’ who can help them get involved with a physical activity, improving their mental and physical wellbeing. 

Daniel, one of our volunteers who helped out on the day, said: "It's been a great day at the Wooler Wheel Cycling Sportive. I’m an endurance runner and cyclist so I really appreciate the importance of sport as a means of lifting mood and reducing stress.”

If you’re a team or company interested in supporting MHM as your Charity of the Year, we’d love to hear from you - please get in touch with Nicola at [email protected].