The fifth Only Fools and Donkeys charity bike ride, Mule d’Âne-versaire, will see 55 riders take on a seven day ride in France to raise funds for local charities working with children, young people, and adults with learning difficulties and physical disabilities.
Only Fools and Donkeys (OF&D) is celebrating the 10th anniversary of the rides following the success of the inaugural Mule Bretagne in 2014 and subsequent rides in 2016, 2018, and a covid delayed one in 2022.
The ride takes place from 8-15 June 2024 starting in St Malo and taking in Mont St Michel, Vitré, Nantes, Saint Nazaire and Rennes. Riders will have the option to choose from three different routes each day: 60, 80, or 100 miles and will be supported by a crew of 10, to ensure all have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Mike Marshall, co-founder of OF&D said: “The Mules are very excited about next year’s ride and we have filled 50 of the 55 places so we do still have a few places available if any budding cyclists would like to join us. With the choice of three different distances each day the ride is open to beginners and more seasoned cyclists.
It’s a great bunch of riders and we’ve got 10 Mules who have done all the rides so we must be doing something right!”
Only Fools and Donkeys has reached the milestone of raising over £250,000 for local charities since it was founded in 2010, the large majority of which has been raised through the bike rides.
Examples of the projects they have supported include the purchase and installation of a professional grade kitchen at Le Murier’s Village; the purchase of a side by side bike for the Autism Hub; and the build and ongoing support of wheelchair friendly raised planters at Le Marchant Ward at the PEH.
Ray Smart, co-founder of OF&D added: “We are so proud to have raised over £250,000 since we started OF&D. We just thought we were going to do a bit of cycling and meet some new people when we started this. The community of riders we have created and the support they have given OF&D over the years has meant we’ve been able to help so many wonderful charities who focus on enhancing the lives of physically and mentally handicapped individuals.
“Some of the Mules are now also getting involved with the charity on a more formal basis as directors and, as well as riding, are taking on responsibilities for organising the ride for the first time.”
For more information about the ride please contact Natalie Davidson.
Pictured: The start of the last ride in June 2022
