Shropshire Rural Community Council had planned a ‘sponsored ride’ on a stationary machine at this weekend’s Shropshire County Show whereby people could cycle any ‘virtual’ measured distance they like along part of the Shropshire Way, which is a 139 mile long loop within the county which takes in many beauty spots, while also raising money for the Carers Appeal.

Elodie Home from Shropshire RCC said: “As part of our charity partnership with the show organisers we were allocated a stand at the show on Saturday but struggled to find a suitable bike to stage the cycle challenge with, and were simply delighted when the Ladypace Gym members of Copthorne offered us one of theirs to borrow.

“The exercise bike is the very latest technology version with variable resistance pedals to simulate hills or any other part of the cycle route, so we expect visitors not only to have a little exercise but also a lot of fun while raising funds for this important cause which directly benefits local people in Shropshire.”

Ladypace Gym owner and manager, Suzanne Shorrock, added: “When we heard about the fundraising event at the County Show our members were more than happy to help out with a machine and we hope that many people visit the RCC stand and have a go on our exercise bike.”