Grand Fire Ride supports two charities

Final preparations are underway for the Grand Fire Ride, an epic 760km+ cycling challenge that will take in all 50 fire stations across Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS).

The event is raising money for the Fire Fighters Charity and Bristol Children's Hospital, via the Grand Appeal.

A group of cyclists will be taking on the five-day ride, with others joining for various legs. The route sets off from Lyme Regis on Tuesday 22 September, and finishes at Bristol Children’s Hospital on Saturday 26 September.

Firefighter Dan Cabell, one of the main organisers, said: “The challenge was originally inspired by the son of a family friend, who is currently undergoing treatment for brain cancer at Bristol Children’s Hospital. However, we know people across DWFRS have benefited from both the Grand Appeal and Fire Fighters Charity, so we want to make the event as successful as possible.”

A number of fundraising events have been held already in support of the Grand Fire Ride, including a Bongo Bingo night at the Thomas Tripp in Christchurch and a flash sale by Avant Garden Tattoo in Wimborne.

Thanks go to the many sponsors who have supported the event through donations of cash and supplies, and to everyone who has donated items that are now available in an online silent auction: https://aucly.co.uk/auctions/the-grand-fire-ride-2026/the-grand-fire-ride-2026

Dan added: “We have at least half a dozen riders taking on the full challenge, and others joining us for single days or even just legs in their local area. It’s the first time we’ve attempted this challenge, and I’m hoping it can become an annual event. We are so grateful to everyone who has supported us so far, and would welcome donations to our online giving page - www.peoplesfundraising.com/fundraising/the-grand-fire-ride”

The riders are following the route below, and you can follow them on Facebook and Instagram:

Day 1 – Tuesday 22 September

• Lyme Regis, Charmouth, Bridport, Beaminster, Maiden Newton, Charminster workshops, Dorchester, Weymouth, Portland, Bere Regis, Wareham, Swanage.

Day 2 - Wednesday 23 September

• Chain ferry to Hamworthy, Poole, Redhill Park, Westbourne, Springbourne, Christchurch, Ferndown, Verwood, Cranborne, Wimborne, Blandford, Sturminster Newton, Sherborne.

Day 3 - Thursday 24 September

• Shaftesbury, Gillingham, Mere, Westbury, Warminster, Tisbury, Wilton, Salisbury.

Day 4 - Friday 25 September

• Amesbury, Ludgershall, Pewsey, Marlborough, Ramsbury, Stratton, Cricklade, Malmesbury, Swindon.

Day 5 - Saturday 26 September

• Westlea, Royal Wootton Bassett, Chippenham, Corsham, Calne, Devizes, Service Control Centre, Melksham, Trowbridge, Bradford on Avon, Hicks Gate (Avon), Bristol Children's Hospital.