A mother and daughter from Maldon will take on a 20km cycle ride in a bid to raise money for local hospice care charity.

Deborah Marshall, from Maldon, will take part in the 20km 'Cycle for Life' with her 12-year-old daughter, Grace in September.

Deborah works as an HR Business Partner at Farleigh and is a keen supporter of the charity, which provides hospice care and specialist support, free of charge, to people affected by life-limiting illnesses and bereavement across mid Essex.

On 18 May, Deborah completed a 25km Jurassic Coast Walk in Dorset with her friend, Liz Pike, raising over £550 for Farleigh. 

Now, alongside daughter Grace, she will be taking on this new cycling challenge to raise more money for the charity's much-needed services.  

Deborah said, "I work at Farleigh and know people who have been cared for by the hospice, so I have seen first-hand the fantastic care that it provides, not only to the patients but also their families.

"Farleigh wouldn't be able to help so many local people without fundraising events like Cycle for Life. I am really proud of Grace for taking part and getting herself sponsored. 



Deborah and Grace have been getting their practise in over the Summer. (Photo: Farleigh Hospice)

"We've been out cycling this summer and even taken our bikes on holiday with us to get in some practice.

"My family are all enthusiastic supporters of Farleigh Hospice. My husband, Richard, will be completing the most ambitious challenge in August 2025 as he is taking part in a cross-Channel swim."  

The pair will be joining other cyclists, who will all be strapping on their helmets on Sunday, September 8 to take part in Farleigh Hospice's annual 'Cycle for Life'.

The ride is popular with cyclists of all abilities, with three scenic routes through the Essex countryside to choose from - 20, 50, or 100 kilometres.

The 20km ride is ideal for beginners or families with younger cyclists and the 50km route is a relaxed ride through all eight of the Essex Rodings. 

The longest 100km course is more challenging, going through the Rodings, the picturesque villages of Thaxted and Finchingfield and then following 35km of the 2014 Tour de France route. It is ideal for very experienced and professional cyclists but not suitable for under 18s. 

All routes start and finish at Farleigh's hospice building in Broomfield, Chelmsford.

It is a fun day out for families, with children able to take part for free.

All cyclists will receive a free t-shirt plus a finisher's medal.

It costs £20 for the 20km ride and £30 for the 50km and 100km rides if you book online by 4pm on September 5. 

On the day prices are £30 to cycle 20km and £40 to cycle 50km or 100km. Under 18s cycle for free but must register and children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. 

For more information, to book or to volunteer at the event, go to the Farleigh Hospice website.