For over 40 years Overgate Hospice has provided vital support for people with life limiting illnesses.

Will Norman was part of the ‘Bike Club’ I rode with. Tragically Will died in 2021 from cancer and his last few days were in the care of Overgate Hospice. When I last met Will I made a promise to him to ‘do a big ride’.

The Calder Divide trail is that ride and we’re proud to be able to aid the work of the hospice over the last three years with a donation of over £9,500. The 2022 event raised £2,250 for the local hospice, in 2023 we donated £4,850, in 2024 we donated £2,437 and in 2025 it was £2,240.

The CDT events that we have held to date have only been possible with the help of a dedicated team of volunteers. Melanie Williamson was in that team.

Mel was the person who organised the pie n peas and so was vital in keeping the riders fueled. More than that she took time to talk to every rider. Mel was a ‘doer’ and a proper people person. Mel died at the age of 62 years of age from an aggressive cancer which took her in a matter of months. Her last few days were in the care of Overgate Hospice.

The 2026 CDT will be our 5th event in aid of Overgate Hospice and we will once again hope to raise a minimum of £2,000.