Charity cycle ride to remember Arran Belle Sue

The Arran Belles have taken part in an emotional charity cycle in memory of their friend.

 

Sue Berry was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) in late 2020 and sadly died last month.

 

The Arran ladies cycling group, joined by Sue's husband Mark, took part Doddie'5 Ride from Melrose to Melrose on Sunday July 17 to once again show their support for the My Name'5 Doddie Foundation, for which they have now raised almost £9,000.

 

The 60-mile challenge, with 4,000 feet of elevation, was in aid of the MND support and research charity established by former Scottish rugby player Doddie Weir.

 

Belle Janice Small said: 'We knew it would be a poignant and emotional day so it was an honour to have Sue’s husband Mark cycle with us as an honorary Belle wearing Sue’s Belles top.’

 

Joining Mark and Janice for the event on a sweltering hot day were other regular Belles Isla Murchie, Fiona Carswell, Kim Toogood, Linda Johnston, Jillian Plenderleith, Jackie Plenderleith and Josephine Broekhuizen.

 

The group all finished the course which took in the sights of the Scottish Borders towns of Earlston, Kelso, Jedburgh and Hawick.

 

It was the second time the Arran Belles had taken part in the event with Sue and Mark both there in a supporting role last year.

 

The Arran Belles first became involved in Doddie Aid events in January 2021 and have since cycled more than 4,000 miles and raised more than £5,000 for the MND Association. The latest cycle raised £3,911 for the charity, taking their total to nearly £9,000.

 

Janice added: ‘We are so grateful to everyone who has supported us. Can you help us raise even more? Our Just Giving page will remain open for a few more weeks at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/arran-belles

 

My Name'5 Doddie Foundation was established in November 2017 by former Doddie Weir, close friends and supporters. Doddie was diagnosed with MND in December 2016 and is committed to help find a cure for MND and support fellow sufferers.

 

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The Arran Belles with Doddie Weir at the start of the challenge. No_B30belles01

 

The Arran Belles before the event. No_B30belles02

 

The Belles enjoy some shade underneath a tree. No_B30belles05

 

Sue Berry in her Arran Belles cycling gear. No_B30belles06