A team of hospital staff, patients and supporters have raised more than £36,000 for Royal Cornwall Hospitals Charity after conquering this year’s Pedal 4 Patients – Tour de Kernow challenge… and the total is still rising!
Now in its sixth year, the event is a highlight of the charity’s fundraising calendar, bringing together people from across Cornwall to support patients and services at the Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust (RCHT).
Over three days, the team cycled a total of 181 miles around Cornwall, starting and finishing at the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro.
The challenge began with the longest stage of the tour, covering 70 miles from Truro to Sennen. On day two, cyclists completed a further 67 miles, travelling from Camborne to Padstow and Bodmin, before finishing the challenge with a 44-mile route from Bodmin around the Roseland Peninsula and back to Royal Cornwall Hospital.
Participant Antony Ewart, Specialist Nurse Practitioner at RCHT, explained what the experience meant: “What an incredible three days! I genuinely think I’ve just ridden with some of the most determined people I’ve ever had the privilege of meeting. We’ve had spills, thrills, laughter, and moments where we’ve all had to dig deep. But what stood out most was how everyone supported each other and kept pushing forward. That was something truly special.
“The tears at the end today were genuine. I’ve never seen a group of people push themselves and each other quite like we did. What we achieved together was absolutely epic.”
The annual event brings together staff, patients and supporters, all united by a shared commitment to raising funds that help Royal Cornwall Hospitals Charity enhance the experience of patients, families and staff across our hospitals.
Riders tackled challenging climbs, coastal roads and changing weather conditions, supported by a dedicated team of volunteers who helped keep the event running smoothly.
Karen Murrish, Fundraising Manager for Royal Cornwall Hospitals Charity, said: “Pedal 4 Patients is always a special event, but this year’s Tour de Kernow has been truly inspirational. To see so many cyclists, including hospital staff, patients and supporters, come together to take on 181 miles across Cornwall is an incredible achievement.
“The event continues to grow in popularity and demonstrates the incredible support our local communities have for the charity and our hospitals.
“Every rider has their own reason for taking part, but they are all united by a desire to make a difference for patients and families across our hospitals. We are immensely grateful to every cyclist, volunteer, supporter and sponsor who helped make the event such a success. And to our business community for their constant support of this event including The Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, Pendennis Shipyard, Kier Construction, TClarke, Nevada Construction and Britannia Lanes.
“The funds raised will help us continue supporting projects, equipment and enhancements that go above and beyond NHS funding, making a real difference to patients, families and staff.”
The charity would like to thank all the cyclists, volunteers, sponsors and supporters who contributed to the success of this year’s Pedal 4 Patients challenge.
Anyone wishing to support the appeal can still donate online 2026 Pedal 4 Patients ‘Tour de Kernow’ – JustGiving or find out more about Royal Cornwall Hospitals Charity by contacting rcht.charity@nhs.net.
