Charity, Events & Entertainment | Posted on May 15th, 2025 | return to news
Dorset air ambulance marks 25th anniversary with cycle ride
Hundreds of cyclists took part in the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance’s annual Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge to celebrate its 25th year.
Over 200 cyclists took part in the annual Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge on Saturday 10 May organised by Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance (DSAA) to raise funds for its vital work.
This year’s event was particularly meaningful as it marked the 25th anniversary of the air ambulance service, which provides lifesaving, pre-hospital critical care to patients in need.
Cyclists of all ages and abilities took part, choosing either the 55-mile route from Watchet in Somerset to West Bay in Dorset, or a shorter 11-mile ride from Drimpton to West Bay. The route delivered a mix of peaceful back roads, leg-testing climbs, and thrilling descents.
Among the riders were former patients who had experienced the work of the air ambulance first hand, whilst others rode in memory of loved ones, or took on the challenge as a personal goal for a great cause.
First across the finish line in West Bay was Bryn Miller from Crewkerne, the first lady was the charity’s own Dr Olivia Cheetham from Bristol, and the first child was William Faulkner from Liskeard.
Each air ambulance mission is funded by donations from supporters like these participants. With no direct government funding and an average cost of around £3,500 per mission, events like Coast to Coast play a vital role in keeping the service flying. Since its launch in 2011, the event has raised over £350,000 to help provide critical care to those in urgent need across Dorset and Somerset.
Alana Hardy, DSAA’s events officer, praised the event and commended the efforts of those who participated. She said: “Another fantastic Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge and what a brilliant way to celebrate 25 years of saving lives. To those who took part, you should be very proud of what you have achieved. It is a tough route with some beautiful scenery. A big thank you to the cyclists, supporters, our wonderful team of volunteers and supporters of the event who made the day not only possible, but something very special.”
DSAA’s highly skilled pilots, critical care practitioners and doctors are operational for 19 hours a day (7am to 2am), 365 days a year. Together, they work tirelessly to save lives. To find out more, visit https://www.dsairambulance.org.uk.
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