North Wales AM Mark Isherwood joined Leonard Cheshire Disability charity to take part in the charity’s Senedd Tour De Cymru event to help more disabled people access sport.
The original Tour de Cyrmu was a five-day, 350 mile cycle ride from Anglesey to Gwent, passing through all Leonard Cheshire facilities in Wales, raising over £10,000 to date.
The Senedd Tour De Cymru (21-22) June saw Assembly Members helping to recreate that achievement on static bikes at the Welsh Assembly to raise awareness of the importance of access to sport for disabled people.
Mr Isherwood AM for North Wales said:
“I was delighted to take part in the Tour de Cymru here at the Assembly. Disabled people should be able to access sport, with all the joy and health benefits it can bring. I know the money raised will help make that a reality for more disabled people here in Wales.”
Glyn Meredith, Leonard Cheshire’s Director of Operations in Wales said:
“We’re very grateful to Mark Isherwood and everyone who has supported this event.
“The money raised from Tour de Cymru will be used to support people who use our services in Wales to have access to adapted sports and physiotherapy equipment, as well as helping disabled people gain access to sporting events in the local area.”
Residents in Leonard Cheshire services across Wales have been inspired to become more active since the launch of the tour. More than 30 people supported by the charity have taken part to enable their services to complete the 350 mile ride on static bikes.
ENDS
Picture caption: North Wales AM Mark Isherwood joins Leonard Cheshire Disability charity to take part in the charity’s Senedd Tour De Cymru event to help more disabled people access sport.
Notes to editors:
Latest figures from Leonard Cheshire revealed that 57% of disabled people are doing no sport, compared to just 24% of non-disabled people. Additionally, 41% of disabled people say there are no facilities suitable for them to access sport.
People can continue to donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/tourdecymru2017