A popular annual charity bike ride could be cancelled unless a sponsor is found within weeks.
The Macclesfield Bikeathon has been running for almost 20 years and has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for charity.
This year’s event was due to take place on May 20.
But organisers Mike Broster and Bob Ellis say the rising costs and the loss of sponsors means the event might not break even.
They are appealing for local businesses to come forward.
Mr Broster, who has been organising the event for 18 years, said: “The bikeathon is a brilliant event for families as well as serious riders. The aim has always been to raise money and give people a good day out.
“Last year we had 1,500 there despite the pouring rain. But our aim of raising any significant money for the charity we want to support is severely affected by the rise in our costs and the loss of sponsorship we have enjoyed in past years. We know this will be a major disappointment to the many people who have generously associated themselves with this extremely worthwhile event but we are not bringing in enough money for us to carry on. It’s barely breaking even. We need sponsors to help finance the event. If we don’t find a backer within the next few weeks we will have to cancel it all together.”
Over the years single events have raised up to £40,000 for charities including East Cheshire Hospice, Marie Curie and Leukaemia Research.
Mr Broster said there was a great deal of support for the event from Cheshire East council and Cheshire police, but what he needed was financial backing.
He said: “When you take into account the amount you pay for the police, public liability insurance, entertainment, security, refreshments, t-shirts and medals for the riders, you are looking at somewhere in the vicinity of £23,000. This is before you have even raised a penny for charity.”
If you can help, contact Mike via bob@macclesfield bikeathon.co.uk or call 01625 428537.
