In November 2018, Ben died, quite suddenly, from a transformation of the Follicular Lymphoma he was diagnosed with in June 2016. It really should have been another 20 years but he was always one to defy expectation (for example, by cycling 100 miles in the alps, whilst living with cancer). Ben was the best of us and he deserves to be remembered and honoured in any way we can. 

Ben was many things, but most people who knew him would probably describe him as: a) bloody lovely and b) a cyclist. 

The brainchild of Ben's dad Nigel, who has worked tirelessly to organise this event, the Ben Vernon Charity Ride aims to be an annual event to raise money for a local charity, chosen each year by his family. This year the ride, on the 16th June 2019, has two routes - both starting and finishing at the Queen's Park Bandstand, Queen's Park, Chesterfield. There will be a shorter 5 mile 'family' route and a longer 15 mile route. Both will be on trails and cycleways with the odd road to cross. Details, routes and safety info will be posted on https://www.facebook.com/events/803605933328312/?ti=cl Facebook page as soon as it's available. 

Ben's family and friends have been hit hard by his death and some of us are struggling to cope. We know, unfortunately, how hard it hits and how families can be torn to pieces by this absolute b*st*rd of a disease and also how much some of us need extra support. That's why we have chosen to support the Cavendish Centre, Sheffield. They have given our family, particularly Ben's son, a lifeline when we needed it most. They are there for anyone affected by cancer - patients, family members, bereaved family and friends - and they always have tea and biscuits! 

To join the ride, just make a donation here and leave a message either here or on the Facebook page letting us know you'll be joining us - and how many in your group. If you're not up for saddle sores but you can be a Marshall or helper on the day (read: sunning yourself whilst wielding a clipboard!), we need you too! We'd love to see you there, even if you're currently a stranger! 

If you happen to just enjoy donating to fantastic causes, feel free to do that too but we'd like you to join us if you can!