Kind-hearted Weymouth fundraisers have planned a 30-mile cycle to raise money so they can give Ukrainian families in Dorset a day of fun and adventure.

Reverend Nick Clarke, retired Weymouth teacher Andy Dukes and others will be cycling 30 miles on the morning of Saturday, September 24, from St Aldhelm's Church on Spa Road, Weymouth, all the way to Swanage where they will meet with the Ukrainian families for a fun day out at Cumulus Outdoors.

There, the estimated 50-60 families from the Weymouth Ukranian Refugee group will enjoy a day out with activities including bushcraft, aeroball, tag archery and circus skills.

Rev Nick Clarke said: “This wonderful town has given great support to Ukrainian refugees and I would like to raise funds to arrange a fun day out at Cumulus Adventure Centre in Swanage.

“My heart reaches out to those displaced by an unjust war and I want to bring support to all those forced into exile for their safety and to show gratitude to all who are sponsoring.”

Mr Clarke says he decided to hold the fun day after a service by the Bishop of Salisbury inspired him to help the large number of Ukrainian refugee families currently living in Weymouth and Portland after escaping the horrors of the Russian invasion of their country. He contacted the Ukrainians, and people supporting them, and the idea of providing a fun day out emerged.

At the same time, a generous offer came from Sam Thompson, Manager of Cumulus Adventure Centre in Swanage, to provide the day out on their site, including fun and challenging activities and transport, at a base cost of £2,100 with Cumulus gaining no profit.

The cyclists are asking for sponsorship so they can cover the £2,100. You can donate on Mr Clarke's ‘gofundme’ page ‘Cycle4Ukraine’ at www.gofundme.com/f/ukraine-fun-day-out

You may also consider joining in on the cycle, or want to help to provide a picnic for the families on the day – contact Mr Dukes at andybraces@aol.com

Mr Clarke, the Ukrainian refugee families, and all those involved in the fun day want to express their deep gratitude to Cumulus Outdoors for their very generous offer of activities.