On Yer Bike is back for Summer 2021, and first to sign up to this 100km cycling challenge were father and daughter duo, Jonathan (49) and Poppy (11) from Lincoln.
St Barnabas first launched this challenge in 2020 to help supporters exercise and fundraise whilst following government guidelines during the pandemic. In total, 83 people took part and raised an incredible £23,272 between them!
The challenge has been resurrected this summer and St Barnabas are asking supporters to cycle 100km in a day, week, month or over the course of the summer to raise money. It really is for people of all cycling abilities as you are in control over how long you take to complete the challenge. You can complete the challenge on any bike of choice, whether that’s an exercise bike indoors or a bicycle outdoors.
Jonathan and Poppy are cycling in memory of their mum/granny who sadly died at the St Barnabas Hospice Inpatient Unit on Nettleham Road. 
Jonathan said, “We sadly lost Mum twenty years ago and want to give something back to this wonderful charity to say thank you for the amazing care she received. Unfortunately, Poppy never had the privilege to meet her Granny, but I know she would be so proud of what Poppy is doing now.
“Poppy and I enjoy cycling together as it is good for our fitness and great for father-daughter bonding time together. We have been cycling round the Lincoln area and making the most of the glorious weather over the past few weeks.
“Mum was such a lovely lady and an inspiration to so many people. Not only was she a fantastic, caring mother to me and my younger brother, Jamie, she was also an NHS nurse and later in life worked in private nursing homes. In her spare time she was active within the Salvation Army, playing cornet in their band and singing soprano in the Songsters.
“The care Mum received when she was in the Hospice was honestly better than a 10* hotel in Dubai! Nothing was too much trouble; from the warm welcome when we were visiting, cups of tea, they even offered a meal to close family. As a family we can’t thank everyone involved enough. We can take comfort in the dignified and peaceful passing provided.”
Poppy added, “I enjoy riding my bike. Me and dad have a laugh while we are out cycling and I have learnt a lot that I didn’t know about my Gran until we started this challenge.” 
Poppy and Jonathan have already quadrupled their initial fundraising target of £100 and are determined to raise more money before their challenge draws to a close. To sponsor them, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Jonathan-Willows1.
On Yer Bike is open to sign ups throughout the summer, and it costs just £12 to get involved. Upon signing up, participants will get to choose between a free branded cycling top or t-shirt (adults) or a free branded t-shirt or water bottle (children).
Visit www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk/onyerbike to sign up!