Now in its fifth year, the Thuso sponsored cycle ride is set to raise money for solar lamps once again. Friends and supporters of the charity will be getting in the saddle on Sunday 9th September to bring safe and affordable lighting to pupils and their families at Lobethal primary school in rural Limpopo.
Hundreds of lamps have already made their way to South Africa, as a result of the energetic efforts of cyclists in previous years. All 15 riders who participated in last year’s cycle ride completed the 40 mile course, which travelled into Epping Forest from Walthamstow to North Weald, via High Beech. In spite of challenges in the form of hills and punctures, the riders were encouraged by great weather and the lovely Essex countryside.
Up to 40% of South Africans still use highly-flammable and toxic kerosene for heating, lighting and cooking. But the new generation of solar lights – like those we are sending – are cheap and reliable and can be used to charge phones as well as provide lighting. The lamps enable children to study after dark and provide a safe form of lighting when electricity supplies fail during power cuts. The families who have received the lights so far have found them easy to use and maintain.
This year’s bike ride will set off from Walthamstow at 10am on Sunday 9th September and riders can choose to complete between 10 and 40 miles. This year we have a number of under 14s taking part in the 10 mile cycle and are keen to have more children, with their parents.
For more information or to join the cycle ride contact Gerard on: gerardomastamilsom@yahoo.co.uk or 07931 337202.
Or if you can’t join the ride you can sponsor the cyclists here
