Treetops Hospice invites local cyclists to join new festive event

Treetops Hospice is inviting the local community to join its brand new festive fundraiser, Santa’s on a Bike, which will take place on Sunday, 21 December.

The event will see local cyclists dress as Santa, decorate their bikes and set off on a 14-mile route that begins and ends at Treetops Hospice in Risley. Participants will be welcomed back with coffee and mince pies to round off the ride.

Treetops has created the fundraiser with the aim of raising awareness of the vital care and support the charity provides to families across southern and central Derbyshire.

Several local cycling clubs have already pledged their support. Ilkeston Cycling Club, awarded Club of the Year by Cycling Weekly in 2020 and now boasting more than 400 members, along with Spondon and Ockbrook cycling clubs, are all encouraging their riders to take part and help spread the word.

Dave Nunn MBE, Committee Member of Ilkeston Cycling Club, said: “We’re delighted to support Treetops with this new festive ride. Our members love a challenge, and this one is all about community spirit and raising awareness for a wonderful local charity.”

Ilkeston and Spondon cycling clubs have also chosen Treetops as the beneficiary of their joint 2026 Midsummer Challenge, and both clubs are planning to support the hospice in future events.

Dave continued: “With Treetops sitting halfway between Ilkeston and Spondon and supporting many of our members, families and friends, it made it a very easy and popular choice as our charity to support.”

John Knight, Chief Executive at Treetops Hospice, commented: “We’re looking forward to welcoming the cycling community to Treetops for this fun ride.

“Santa’s on a Bike is a great way to celebrate the season, get active and show support for local families who rely on our care. We hope it becomes a festive Treetops tradition that grows year on year.”

The charity is inviting local residents, families (children over 13) and cycling enthusiasts to join in the fun, dress up and help make the first Santa’s on a Bike event a memorable success.

To register for Santa’s on a Bike, visit: https://www.treetopshospice.org.uk/event/santas-on-a-bike/