Ryde Arena Community Action Group has had a fundraising boost of £658 after the October challenge of the Bicycle Island app hit its charity target for the first time.
The Isle of Wight Council-funded app, linked to the SMART cycling corridor between Cowes and Newport, challenges users to complete monthly distance targets and in return, sponsors donate money to a chosen Island charity, based on the distance travelled.
Last month’s challenge, sponsored by Red Funnel, tasked users with riding to raise money to help cover the travel expenses of skaters training and competing on the Mainland.
So far, the innovative digital app from Council partner on the project, Llama Digital Ltd, and an amazing team of cycle users who have signed up to it, have raised a fantastic total of £2,420 for local charities by pedalling 9,289 kilometres along the route.
Councillor Ian Ward, Cabinet member for infrastructure and transport has said:
“I’d like to say a huge thank you to all of the cyclists who took part in this challenge, it’s a fantastic result and I hope it will encourage further participation in this ground-breaking project for the UK.
“The SMART corridor combines digital innovation, fundraising and creates a truly interactive experience for users. I hope that the cycling route, combined with the Bicycle Island app will encourage even more visitors, residents and employers to choose a cycling commute as a healthy and sustainable alternative to driving.”
Bicycle Island App user, Mick Watts agrees.
“I would encourage more people to get involved and use the app on the cycle route, especially because of the charitable aspect. I used to cycle the route regularly when I worked for GKN but since retiring, I didn’t have cause to use it. With the app, I now use it as a workout, which takes an hour from where I live, and I help raise money for charity at the same time so win win!”
The SMART Corridor, thought to be a first for the UK, is one of a number of projects being delivered by the council through its Sustainable Travel Access Fund, using external funding secured competitively from the Department of Transport.
