Cyclists of all ages are getting set for one of Devon’s boldest and most popular charity challenges this autumn, the Tour de Moor.

The annual event – now in its tenth year – takes place on Sunday 13 October, raising funds to help us continue our specialist end of life care for terminally ill people, helping them to live well to the end.

Sponsored by Print Copy Scan, a local supplier of printers and copiers, the challenge in the rugged wilds of Dartmoor offers cyclists the opportunity of an adrenalin-packed adventure: the hill-filled 52km mixed terrain route of mud, sweat and gears. Cycling at its fiercest for those aged 12 and above!

Alternatively, participants aged 9 and above can take it down a gear and saddle up for 23km of tough riding over hills and through woods, and there’s also the ‘mini moor’, a gentle 11km ride along the tarmac paths of Drake’s Trail that’s suitable for all the family.

As well as Tour de Moor providing for every level of cycling ability, the money it raises means our highly skilled team can give not just expert medical care but also emotional, practical and spiritual support to families at the most vulnerable of times, whether their loved one is being cared for at home, in hospital or at our specialist unit at Turnchapel.

Head of Fundraising, Penny Hannah, said: “Tour de Moor is always a terrific day. It’s fitness and muddy fun, and with three routes to choose from, it’s ideal for both families as well as more experienced cyclists who really want to push themselves.

“Taking on the challenge is a great opportunity to get on your bike and help us provide vital care and support to patients and their families across the local area, making every hill climb worth that extra effort!”

Director of Print Copy Scan, Karl Welburn, said, “The calibre of the care St Luke’s provides is second to none, but we mustn’t take it for granted because none of us know when we might need it. As the only specialist end of life care provider in this area, the charity needs continued support and that’s why we’re proud to sponsor Tour de Moor again this year. All the money raised by people participating goes directly to patient care.”

The Tour de Moor challenge departs from 8.30am at Harrowbeer Airfield, near Yelverton, and finishes there.

Sign up for the challenge at www.stlukes-hospice.org.uk/tourdemoor or by calling us on 01752 492626. Registration costs £30 for the 52km or 23km route, and £15 for the 11km route.