Virtual tour of Pembrokeshire unites cyclists and farmers

Peter Walker with Tour of Pembrokeshire Patron Tori James.

Organisers of The Tour of Pembrokeshire, one of the most iconic cycling events in Wales, are arranging a virtual event to raise money for farming charity R.A.B.I.

The popular sportive, which regularly attracts around 1,500 riders, was due take place on May 16th but, like all public events, had to be cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic. It’ll be back next year, when Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi in St Davids will play host, but cyclists can still tackle the virtual event this year – from the comfort of their own homes or on the road subject to Government regulations.

“We wanted to do something positive after the disappointment of cancelling and being able to help disadvantaged farmers is very close to our heart,” said organiser Peter Walker. “Whether you’re a rider, a marshal or a supporter you can get involved. We’ve been working hard to try and recreate the experience of riding The Tour as much as we can by building a forum-based website so visitors can interact by uploading pictures and text.”

The Tour of Pembrokeshire offers a range of routes and distances for riders of all abilities. The virtual Tour will seek to replicate these – and competitors can tackle more than one event in return for a donation to R.A.B.I. Riders can take part in the Virtual Tour of Pembrokeshire from the launch date of May 16th and whoever raises the most funds will win a fabulous set of wheels donated by Mavic UK. If you’re not a cyclist, you can still get involved via the website by making a donation.

The Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution – R.A.B.I – is farming’s oldest and largest charity supporting farmers of all ages with financial grants, guidance and practical care.

Former NFU President Meurig Raymond has agreed to be Patron of the Virtual Tour of Pembrokeshire. Meurig, who also served previously as a R.A.B.I trustee, said: “I was particularly pleased to be invited to provide my support to this fantastic initiative, to help farmers who are being seriously affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. Farming has always been a lonely, isolated occupation and farmers are naturally independent and normally fairly resilient. However, the present global situation is affecting every aspect of farming in the UK. With so many supply routes closed, the financial pressure on farmers will be for some, overwhelming.”

To register for the Virtual Tour of Pembrokeshire, or to find out more information, go to www.hub.tourofpembrokeshire.co.uk