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Twins' double effort helps wheel in cancer support

From the archive, first published Monday 19th Jun 2000.

TWINS Ian and Simon Harris got into a double spin over the weekend as hundreds of cyclists took to the lanes of Hampshire for the NEWSCOM-backed Wheelsaround Wessex 2000.

Cyclists of all ages set off from ten locations, stretching from Southampton to Shaftesbury, for the sponsored Sunday cycle ride which ended at historic Breamore House at Breamore, near Fordingbridge.

They were pedalling hard to raise vital funds for the Southampton-based Wessex Cancer Trust and organisers were hoping that the popular event would bring in about £10,000.

Fifteen-year-olds Ian and Simon, of Blackwater Drive, Calmore, near Totton, were among more than 50 cyclists who set off from the Daily Echo headquarters at Redbridge in Southampton for the 23-mile trip to Breamore House.

The picturesque grounds were the setting for an action-packed afternoon of family entertainment including live music, tug-of-war and various children's activities.

As they set off on their 15-gear bikes the twins, who are pupils at Testwood Secondary School in Totton, were well prepared for the heatwave conditions and the journey.

Accompanied by their 18-year-old brother Michael, it was the first time Ian and Simon had been on Wheelsaround Wessex bike ride.

Audrey Newman, route co-ordinator for the Southampton and Totton start of the cycle marathon, said: "As well as raising funds it is a real family day out. We are grateful for the wonderful support from NEWSCOM and allowing us to start off from here, which is an ideal location.''

NEWSCOM, which formerly owned the Daily Echo, is now owned by Newsquest following a multi-million pound takeover.

Converted for the new archive on 25 January 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.

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