A KEEN cyclist hit a bump in the road when his 33-mile cycle to raise vital funds for a charity close to his heart was unexpectedly cancelled.

Andrew Beale, from Weymouth, was due to cycle the Local Pride event on September 6, in aid of The Dystonia Society.

Andrew had been due to set off from Bridgwater, over the Polden Hills and across Mark Moor before arriving on the seafront in Burnham before returning, crossing the Huntspill River and passing through Woolavington Village and finishing back at Bridgwater.

However, the Friday before Andrew got the news that the ride had been cancelled.

Yet, with hundreds of pounds already raised he didn't let this phase him.

Andrew said: "What was I to do after getting nearly £150 worth of sponsorship and collected more than £100 with Sandy West Community Life Champion in the foyer at ASDA.

"Well luckily for me as reported by the Dorset Echo, there was the forth charity bike ride at Longthorns Camp site on the same day as my cancelled ride in Bridgewater.

"I telephoned organiser David King and asked if I could ride along side bike riders raising money for Cancer Research, even though I was raising money for The Dystonia Society, and he kindly agreed to let me register for the 35 mile route.

"It was a perfect day for the challenge, sunny and not a breath of wind and incredibly well organised, I had a brilliant ride and just want to thank The Rotary Club of Wareham and friends and family for their generosity and support.

"The bike ride is over, next is Brass Tacks in concert on Friday September 18 and everybody is welcome."

Dystonia is an incurable condition which occurs when incorrect signals from the brain lead to uncontrollable and sometimes painful muscle spasms.

It is estimated to affect at least 70,000 people in the UK.

The Dystonia Society provides practical and emotional support to people living with this neurological condition by providing support and information services.

Andrew plays in the small brass band, Brass Tacks and the bandmaster, Brian Scott, has agreed to give a free concert in aid of The Dystonia Society.

This will take place on Friday, September 18 at 7.30pm at Chickerell Methodist Church.

To sponsor Andrew visit justgiving.com/Andy-Beale1 or by texting DYST98 and an amount of £1, £2, £3, £4, £5 or £10 to 70070.

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e: meghan.hindley@dorsetecho.co.uk

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