Dumfries and Galloway farmer wants hundreds of cyclists to join him for MND charity ride

**Dumfries and Galloway Farmer Calls for Cyclists to Join MND Charity Ride**

Dumfries and Galloway farmer, Billy Henderson, is on a mission to recruit hundreds of cyclists and helpers to participate in the upcoming Doddie’s Grand Bike Tour of Scotland, scheduled for February next year. The charity event aims to raise funds for the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) campaign founded by the late rugby star Doddie Weir.

The event, Doddie’s Grand Bike Tour of Scotland, will kick off in Dublin and traverse through Dumfries and Galloway, with planned stops in Stranraer, Castle Douglas, Annan, and Dumfries, before continuing northwards, covering a total of 700 miles over four days. Henderson is aiming to gather 400 volunteers to join the ride and assist with various aspects of the event.

Reflecting on the success of past charity rides like the Doddie Cup 500, Doddie Cup 555, and All Roads Lead to Rome, Henderson expressed his excitement for the next chapter, Doddie’s Grand Bike Tour of Scotland in 2025. The event is set to conclude at Edinburgh Castle after visiting multiple rugby clubs and royal residences across Scotland, with a grand bike parade planned before the Ireland game in the Six Nations.

Former rugby internationals from Scotland, Wales, England, and Ireland, including Rob Wainwright, are set to participate in the charity ride to raise funds in the fight against MND. Over the years, these charity bike rides have collectively raised over £2 million for the cause.

Henderson, a former Annan Rugby Club player, is urging individuals to form teams and participate in the event either for the whole route or for specific segments. He is also seeking assistance from volunteers to provide hosting and hospitality to the visitors during the tour.

To ensure the success of the event, Henderson is calling for more bikers, helpers, and sponsors to come forward. Individuals interested in joining the ride or supporting the cause can reach out to Henderson directly at 07885 630703.

As preparations ramp up for Doddie’s Grand Bike Tour of Scotland, the camaraderie and community support seen in past events highlight the significance of coming together to combat MND and make a difference in the lives of those affected by the disease.

By Kenny Macdonald, 07:57, 30 OCT 2024

—

**Insights and Summary:**

Billy Henderson’s efforts to organise Doddie’s Grand Bike Tour of Scotland showcase the power of community and charity in coming together to support a cause like the fight against Motor Neurone Disease. The determination to raise funds and awareness through physically demanding challenges like a 700-mile bike ride demonstrates the impact individuals can have when they rally behind a shared goal. Henderson’s call for volunteers and participants not only sheds light on the importance of fundraising events but also underscores the spirit of unity and support that can make a significant difference in battling diseases like MND. Whether it’s former rugby stars or local volunteers, the diverse participation in such charity rides illustrates the breadth of impact that collective efforts can achieve in creating positive change within communities.