Black Sheep Big Spoon Bike Ride Raises Over £6,200 for Wooden Spoon

Cyclists, volunteers and sponsors came together in spectacular fashion for this year’s Black Sheep Big Spoon Bike Ride, raising more than £6,200 to help Wooden Spoon continue changing children’s lives through the power of rugby.

The event welcomed riders of all abilities to the stunning Yorkshire Dales, with participants taking on one of four challenging routes through some of the region’s most breathtaking countryside.

A highlight of the day was the achievement of Juliette Inverdale-Smith, daughter of former Wooden Spoon Surrey President and former BBC rugby and tennis presenter John Inverdale, who successfully completed the 102-mile route – the longest and most demanding challenge on offer.

The epic route tested riders with more than 7,400 feet of climbing, including the iconic ascent to Tan Hill, England’s highest pub. Despite strong winds and demanding conditions, participants showed incredible determination, resilience and teamwork throughout the day.

Among those demonstrating true Wooden Spoon spirit were Joe Watson and his brother-in-law Tom Gregory. The pair battled gale-force headwinds, multiple punctures and a series of mechanical issues during their 102-mile challenge before eventually crossing the finish line after more than 10 hours in the saddle. Joe’s determination was driven by the knowledge that he had raised nearly £2,000 in sponsorship for Wooden Spoon’s work supporting children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage.

The event’s success would not have been possible without the dedication of 15 volunteers who helped ensure riders were supported throughout the day, alongside an outstanding team providing mechanical assistance, route support and encouragement from start to finish.

Wooden Spoon would also like to extend its sincere thanks to our event sponsors. Principal sponsor Black Sheep Brewery once again provided fantastic support and hospitality, while Bettys and Taylors generously supplied Yorkshire Tea, Taylors coffee and the famous Bettys Fat Rascals. In-Site Property Solutions played a vital role by providing directional signage and medical support throughout the event.

The Black Sheep Big Spoon Bike Ride continues to grow as a fantastic example of communities coming together to support Wooden Spoon’s mission of tackling disadvantage and helping children and young people reach their full potential.

A huge thank you to every cyclist, volunteer, sponsor and supporter who helped make the event such a success. Every mile ridden and every pound raised will help Wooden Spoon continue changing children’s lives through rugby.