Doctor Who actor Matt Smith is encouraging riders to get involved in the tenth anniversary bike ride at Althorp.
The former School for Boys pupil, who recently announced he will departing from the BBC’s hit show at Christmas after three series, is urging riders to sign up for this year’s Cycle 4 Cynthia and help its two benefitting charities - the Friends of Cynthia Spencer Hospice and Macmillan Cancer Support in the county.
He said: “I grew up fairly close to the hospice so I know about its fantastic work and of course that of Macmillan, and I can’t imagine two more deserving causes.
“So I’m really sorry that I can’t be there on the day as I’ve heard it’s great fun for riders of all ages and abilities. If only I actually could time-travel, I’d be there with my sonic screwdriver!”
Matt, who is perhaps better known for his footballing rather than cycling skills, having played in the youth teams for Northampton Town, is also busy promoting the Time Lord’s 50 years on screen as well as filming scenes for Ryan Gosling’s directorial debut ‘How to Catch a Monster’ so for Sue Bownass from the hospice, his absence is completely forgiven.
She said: “It’s such a wonderfully hectic year for Matt and of course we’re sorry that he can’t join us at Althorp for what is always a fabulous event but to know that he’s behind us and will be thinking of us on the day is invaluable,
“Matt’s also kindly pledged to donate some signed memorabilia so we’ll raffle that and help raise a little more money for our two great causes.
“Of course, we also award a prize for the best fancy dress so perhaps we might get a few daleks or even cyberman cycling this year, although it might be easier to knit a long coloured scarf and wear that instead.”
This year’s ride, the tenth anniversary of the event, is taking place at Althorp on Sunday 22 September by kind permission of The Earl and Countess Spencer and will again offer riders the chance to enjoy the west Northamptonshire countryside on either its 5, 25 or 50 mile routes. Entry is £15 for adults, £7.50 for children and £35 for and families.
For details of the routes, to download entry and sponsorship forms or to enter online, please visit www.cycle4cynthia.com Alternatively to enter a business team, to pledge corporate sponsorship or your support as a volunteer on the day, please call Sue Bownass at the Friends of Cynthia Spencer Hospice on 01604 678088.