Stratford Cycling Club
Reliability Ride 2026 supporting Heart of England Mencap’s Cyc-Ability Club.
After a fantastic day, we raised an amazing £602.09, all of which will be used to acquire more accessible bikes for individuals in our community with learning and physical disabilities.
Everyone at Heart of England Mencap would like to say a huge thank you to Stratford Cycling Club and the many riders who took part in this year’s Reliability Ride 2026, helping to raise funds for our Cyc-Ability programme.
An incredible 95 cyclists turned out to take on either the 44-mile or 58-mile route, travelling through some of the most beautiful parts of the Cotswolds. The route included iconic local sights such as Broadway Tower, the stunning lavender fields nearby, and the historic market town of Stow-on-the-Wold, before riders made their way back towards Stratford-upon-Avon.
The event also saw fantastic support from other local cycling communities, including Warwick Lantern Rouge, Kenilworth Wheelers, and Shipston Cycling Club, all helping to make the day a great success.
A Tradition of Cycling and Community
Reliability Rides have long been part of UK cycling club culture. Originally designed as early-season challenges where riders could test their fitness and equipment against other clubs, these events remain a valued tradition today. Over time they have evolved to welcome cyclists of many abilities while also raising vital funds for good causes.
Supporting Cyc-Ability
The support from Stratford Cycling Club is invaluable to Heart of England Mencap. Funds from the ride aid our Cyc-Ability programme, allowing individuals with disabilities to enjoy the benefits of cycling in a safe, supportive environment.
A Fantastic Partnership
This event highlights what can happen when local organisations come together with a shared sense of community. Our partnership with Stratford Cycling Club has been a fantastic collaboration and one that feels incredibly natural.
We are truly grateful for the warm support shown by everyone involved — from the organisers and volunteers to every rider who took part on the day.
Kate and Catherine preparing to welcome the riders home with plenty of tea, cakes and rolls!
We hope this is just the beginning and that we can continue to build on this relationship, working together in the future to support one another and create even more opportunities for people in our community.
From everyone at Heart of England Mencap’s Cyc-Ability Club — thank you for your generosity, enthusiasm and community spirit. 💙
If you would like to learn more about our Cyc-Ability Club, whether it’s to take part as a member, get involved as a volunteer or to donate to our cause, please contact Kate on: KButtrick@heartofenglandmencap.org.uk or call 07791 394276.
