Three friends cycle to Santander for Hospice Care

Friends, Bill Perry, John Jackson and Alex Brown took on a cycling challenge in 2026, for patients and loved ones supported by Arthur Rank Hospice Charity.

On Sunday 31 May 2026 they set off for the 800 mile plus challenge, through France to Santander in Spain. On day eight, after cycling from Ultreia et Suseia: (Îrun to Gernika), Bill wrote:

“Every so often you have an extra-special day of cycling. We all thought this was one such. First of all, a flat-ish run to San Sebastian for coffee. As we arrived the day was already warm and sunny and the city turned out to be a pleasant surprise, full of grand buildings, open spaces and attractive streets.

Then onto the first notable climb of the tour, 400 m up Monte Igeldo and what a climb it was – lovely even grading with sunshine above and the blue Atlantic crashing on the rocks below. It eventually topped out and we had cold drinks at the characterful Yellow Deli.

Then on to a succession of shorter climbs throughout the day, including some ridiculously steep gradients both up and down. The town of Deba was built on such a steep site that lifts were provided for getting about.

Finally, the climbing evened out somewhat and the last portion of the day was spent on quiet roads undulating through the forest, with spectacular coastal views occasionally afforded. We arrived tired but exhilarated in Gernika for well deserved beers and tapas.”

Bill shared their reasons for choosing to support Arthur Rank Hospice Charity:

“I have a friend, who used to enjoy cycling, who has been supported by the Charity and I know it is a very worthy cause. This is the third time we have raised money for the Charity and when we visited to meet one of the Fundraising Team members in the Bistro we were given a nice welcome in a calm atmosphere.”

 The friends returned to the UK, just under two weeks later, to Portsmouth on Friday 12 June.

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If you would like to fundraise to support patients and loved ones supported by Arthur Rank Hospice Charity, please visit arhc.org.uk/fundraising or email cf@arhc.org.uk(opens in new tab) or telephone 01223 675888.