The Magic of Merlin is back again at the National Botanic Garden of Wales in the form of the Annual Merlin Charity Bike Ride.
Now in its fourth year at the gardens, the ride will start and end at the magnificent Great Glasshouse on Sunday 3rd July starting at 8am. Wales Air Ambulance, Macmillan Cancer Support and Ty Hafan will all benefit from funds raised. As well as raising money for charity the event will promote cycling as a environmentally friendly and an enjoyable means of transport and a healthy activity.
Over 500 riders from all over the country are expected to attend and they will have the opportunity to ride through some of the most beautiful parts of the Carmarthenshire countryside. Four different routes are designed for all abilities and ages and cover between 24 and 104 miles.
One of the riders is Daryl Gittings, 46 from Trap near Llandeilo who lost a leg after suffering two brain tumours. Daryl says: “Two brain tumours cost me my leg but, with the right help, support and guidance, you’ll be amazed what you can do.”
Daryl, one of a number of amputees taking part in the event, added: “This sort of event is a tremendous opportunity for me to show other people ‘You CAN do it’. ”
Getting up extra early to open the bike ride and welcome disabled participants and those riding for charity, will be Jane Davidson until recently Welsh Assembly Government Minister for Environment and now Director of INSPIRE the new Sustainability Institute at Trinity St David University.
