Somerset charity the Piers Simon Appeal (PSA) is planning an international charity bike ride that will see those in the saddle pedalling hundreds of miles to raise money for a great cause.

Somerset charity the Piers Simon Appeal (PSA) is planning an international charity bike ride that will see those in the saddle pedalling hundreds of miles to raise money for a great cause. Volunteer cyclists will be biking from the Somerset village of Chilthorne Domer to one of Europe’s most recognisable landmarks in Paris this April.

PSA is appealing for local residents to make a real difference and help vulnerable victims of disasters by digging deep and sponsoring the riders. They are also looking for generous companies to make donations that will help fund the support team. By getting involved, local residents and businesses can raise vital funds to support the life-changing work of PSA.

PSA is a charity that supports victims of disasters worldwide through its Disaster Relief and School in a Bag scheme. It was set up at the beginning of 2005 in memory of tsunami victim Piers Simon from Chilthorne Domer, Yeovil, who died on the Thai island of Koh Phi Phi on Boxing Day 2004. To date, the PSA has raised over �400,000 supporting disasters victims in 12 countries. Through its School in a Bag initiative, the charity has given hope for the future to over 32,000 vulnerable, orphaned and disaster affected children worldwide.

The event will involve cycling from the PSA headquarters in Chilthorne Domer to Paris. Peddling will commence on April 19 and participants will arrive at the Eiffel Tower on April 23 – St George’s Day! In total, the five day trip will cover approximately 250 miles, with the longest day being a gruelling 80 mile jaunt.

PSA Charity Liaison Officer Luke Simon is also raising money for the PSA by running in the London Marathon just two days before the ride to Paris! Luke says, “The sponsorship raised by the riders is so important to the people the PSA are able to help. A donation of just �10 can fund a SchoolBag, providing essential learning materials and resources to poor, orphan and disaster affected children around the world – this SchoolBag could ultimately transform their life, giving them not only a chance for a better education but also hope for a brighter future.

“We are also seeking sponsorship from businesses to help pay for some of the inevitable expenses the trip will generate – namely fuel costs and van hire. Money donated towards this expenditure will be hugely valuable as it will help us commit more money towards our cause. In exchange, the PSA will advertise and promote donors in our newsletters, website and social media sites and, in the media coverage that we receive. We will also get company logos on the bike badges and tour shirts that everyone taking part will wear.”

If you would like to get involved or find out more about sponsorship opportunities please contact Luke Simon on 07721 741623 or email lucas@pierssimonappeal.org