Raising Over £2,000 for Local Charities
Hannah Miller, 37, and her six-year-old daughter Seren, from Kirdford, embarked on an extraordinary 300km cycling journey from Newhaven to Paris and back, combining their passion for adventure with a mission to support local charities.
The journey, inspired by Hannah’s success in securing tickets to the Paris 2024 Olympics, aimed to raise funds for various community causes while sharing the joy of cycle touring.
Hannah said: “I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved. It was challenging but rewarding, and it brought Seren and me closer together. I hope our journey inspires other families and single parents to explore the joys of cycle touring.”
The pair set off on July 29th, beginning their journey in Dieppe, France, and following the Avenue Verte – a scenic, car-free cycle route linking London and Paris. Despite facing early challenges such as extreme heat and fatigue, the duo persevered, covering up to 45km a day, with Seren cycling significant portions on her own.
Their route took them through picturesque towns like Forges-les-Eaux and Beauvais, and included a memorable stay with a Warmshowers host near Cergy. The journey culminated in Paris, where they cycled to iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame, before enjoying the Olympic events.
Returning home after covering a total distance of 307km, the duo’s fundraising efforts exceeded expectations, raising over £2,000 for several local causes, including the Turning Tides Homeless Charity, 1st Wisborough Green Scout Group, Plaistow and Kirdford Primary School, and their local church.
Hannah said: “We wanted to raise money for lots of causes locally and it is really hard to choose just one. Sharing the money out will make a huge difference to each of the chosen charities.
“As a single parent I have sometimes needed help. I am part of a community that is hugely supportive. I live my life with the ambition that I should try and give back to the community more than I take, so this fundraising along with my volunteering roles is my contribution to some of the organisations and the community that make a difference to our lives.”
To support Hannah and Seren’s fundraising efforts, donations can be made at www.gofundme.com/f/Serensbigbikeride. Follow their adventure on Facebook at ‘Seren’s Big Bike Ride’ (www.facebook.com/61563461488062) for more updates.