Pier to Paris Pedlars to Get on Their Bikes For Memorial Fundraiser

A TEAM of intrepid cyclists are to embark on a gruelling 380-mile ride from Weston-super-Mare’s iconic Grand Pier to Paris, in memory of local mum, Mandy Jones.

The challenge sets off at 10am from the Grand Pier on Sunday, September 13, to raise funds for the 4U Mandy Jones charity.

Mandy Jones, a mother-of-two, of Weston-super-Mare, sadly lost her battle with Melanoma in 2011.

Her wish was to raise awareness of this almost silent but deadly form of Cancer to prevent others going through the same ordeal.

Following her death a group of trustees officially formed 4U Mandy Jones, to carry out Mandy’s last wishes and to raise awareness.

Their next challenge sees 12 cyclists travel a 380-mile journey from The Grand Pier to The Arc de Triomphe, over four days.

The event was the brainchild of Paul Evans, one of the riders and the best friend of Brian, Mandy’s widower.

Brian said: “We formed 4U Mandy Jones to carry out Mandy’s wishes and take the message to as many people as possible.

“As this is all about raising awareness of skin cancer and riders have been kindly supplied with sun cream from Uvistat.

“Training commenced six months ago and the team have clocked a fair few miles in all weathers to ensure that they are match fit.

“We are extremely grateful to all of our riders undertaking this epic challenge and businesses whom have pledged their support.”

Over the last thirty years, rates of malignant melanoma in Great Britain have risen faster than any of the current ten most common cancers, and increased more than fivefold since the mid-1970s.

Alex Demetriou, Grand Pier Director, said: “We are happy to support such a worthy cause and in particular because it is in memory of Mandy, who was such a bubbly and memorable character.”

Cyclists will have sign written support vehicles during the journey driven by Paul’s Dad and Brother, who will offer their assistance.

Pier to Paris Pedlars all have each been sponsored by a different company, and other local firms; The Grand Pier, Print Factor, NK Sports, Bicycle Chain and Bidvest, have also offered their support.

Rider sponsors include: Paul Evans – sponsored by Combicare, Brian Jones – City Plumbing, Becky Vaughan – Grand Pier, Mike McAndrew – Apple Central, Roy Wells – Perfect Plastering, Jamie Spencer – Co-Op, Amy Vaughan – Precision Plumbing & Heating, Jon Rutherford- T&L Wholesale, Jason Burton – Fracarro, Ben Hall – Koolbox / Pinewood, Tyrone Quick – Newcombe Construction, Luke Mason – Ashfords Solicitor.