For Dave, Tour de Moor is more than a cycling challenge. It’s a chance to remember his mum Marion and Aunty Pat, while supporting St Luke’s.

2nd September 2026/

The family memories behind Dave’s reason to ride

Everyone who takes part in Tour de Moor has their own reason for getting on their bike.

For Dave, it’s personal.

He rides in memory of his mum Marion and his Aunty Pat, twin sisters who were at the heart of a close-knit family.

“They were both very strong willed, devoted to the family and wouldn’t back down to anybody or anything. But underneath, were the most loving mother and Aunty anybody could wish for.”

Dave remembers a childhood and family life filled with happy memories of parties and holidays together.

Dave’s mum Marion and his Aunty Pat

Remembering Marion and Pat

Dave’s mum Marion lived in Hampshire and was diagnosed with breast cancer when she was 50. She lived with the disease for 12 years before dying at the age of 62.

“As you can imagine a huge loss to our family and still thought about and missed all the time.”

Following Marion’s death, Aunty Pat became an even bigger presence in the family.

“Many the time I’ve sat with Aunty Pat reminiscing about my mum and recalling lots of happy memories.”

Pat was later diagnosed with cancer at 90 and, like Marion, was a fighter until she died aged 92.

Both women remained at home until close to the end of their lives before receiving end-of-life care.

“They were both looked after by end-of-life care, who treated them with the utmost care, dignity and respect.” 

Dave and his fellow cycling buddies

Riding for a reason

Those experiences are part of the reason Dave continues to get on his bike and support St Luke’s through Tour de Moor.

This October will be his fourth time taking part.

And each year, he’s been encouraging a few more people to join him.

“I’ve been gradually pulling in friends for this great cause and this year there will be six of us riding.”

Age isn’t getting in their way either.

“Three of us are well into our sixties but love the challenge and camaraderie of this event.”

And Dave has no intention of stopping there.

“We will continue to ride and bring in as many people as I can to support St Lukes and the work they do.”

What’s your reason to ride?

For Dave, Tour de Moor is a chance to remember two much-loved members of his family, support hospice care and enjoy the challenge alongside his friends.

For you, the reason might be completely different.

You might ride in memory of someone you love. You might want to challenge yourself. Or perhaps you simply want to experience Dartmoor alongside friends and family while doing something that makes a difference.

Whatever your reason, we’d love you to join us.

Tour de Moor returns on Sunday 11 October 2026, with 11km, 28km and 53km routes to choose from.

Join Dave and make your miles matter.

Learn more about Tour De Moor

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Nearly 1,000 cyclists saddle up for St Luke’s Tour de Moor challenge