Pedal power used for Farm Africa cycle fundraiser

A team of cyclists from the NFU are putting their talents to use when they take part in Ride London – all in aid of charity Farm Africa.

The NFU team, Martin Haworth, Richard Wordsworth and John Haselden are using pedal power to continue long-standing NFU support for the charity which helps farmers in Eastern Africa grow a secure food supply.

Ride London takes place on August 4 and the team is busy raising funds before setting off from the London 2012 Olympics Complex. They will have to cover the 100 mile trip, including three challenging 200 metre hills setting off from 6am and finishing within nine hours.

Mr Haworth, who led the Africa 100 fundraising team to climb Mt Kilimanjaro in September to raise £40k for the charity, said that Ride London would be a challenge but one he and the team were ready for.

“We have been training, cycling local routes in Warwickshire near the NFU headquarters, and so we’re ready for what promises to be a great event. More importantly is the fundraising that is starting in earnest now to raise money for Farm Africa.

“Having seen for myself some of the charity’s projects I know how their approach, working with farmers to improve crop health, increase yields, and share their knowledge with other farmers, is really helping to increase food security where it matters most.

“I would urge everyone to support us by donating whatever they can. Every donation, no matter how small, helps us to help farmers in Eastern Africa to do what we all take for granted; enjoy a secure food supply for them and their families.”

Looking forward to this year’s Ride London, Farm Africa’s Head of Corporate and Community Fundraising Cathy Wentworth said: “It has been a hugely challenging year for farmers here in the UK so it’s wonderful to see the NFU continuing to build its strong commitment to Farm Africa and its work.

“As with last year’s Kilimanjaro Climb, the team’s participation in RideLondon shows how determined farmers here in the UK are to support their fellow farmers in eastern Africa. I’d like to thank the NFU team for all its fundraising and hard work training for the event and to wish everyone involved the very best of luck.”