Simon Russell

Le Loop - supporting the William Wates Memorial Trust

Le Loop follows the official route of the Tour de France, one week ahead of the professionals and finishes 21 stages later in Paris

On Friday 25th June 2025 around 100 riders, including me, will gather in Lille for the 'Grand Depart'. In previous years I have done 3 to 7 days riding but this year I thought I would give the whole thing a go - 21 days of riding over 3 weeks - a long way with a few mountains to climb en route !

Riders tackle one of a selection of "Loops" riding anything from 2 to all 21 stages of the Tour de France route. Every participant commits to raising a minimum amount for the William Wates Memorial Trust (WWMT). The fundraised money is entirely separate from the participation fee - I have paid all my costs and Cheeky Rascals has committed my minimum sponsorship contribution.

All monies raised go directly to the William Wates Memorial Trust whose mission is to help the most disadvantaged young people keep away from a life of crime and violence and fulfil their potential. This is achieved by giving grants to charities that engage young people through the medium of sports, arts and education.

It's been a tough couple of years for charities and particularly for young people. This is a chance for you and me to give something back and help support young people who aren't lucky enough to enjoy the advantages in life that most of us take for granted.

I have done sections of the loop every year since 2013 but because everyone knows I like riding my bike I have quietly coughed up the sponsorship amount without hassling you. This year will actually be pretty hard work so please reward my pain by giving generously.

WWMT supports some great charities and everything you help me raise will go straight to the people who need it with no admin or marketing cost taken out on the way.

Merci!