Doctor Who actor Matt Smith supports charity bike ride!
The county’s favourite annual bike ride looks set to gain intergalactic recognition after receiving support from none other than the current Doctor Who, aka Northampton actor Matt Smith!
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.
Matt had been invited to follow in the footsteps of former celebrities including Countess Spencer, singer-songwriter Curtis Stigers and Radio 2 presenter Jo Whiley in opening the ride but is unable to perform the honours owing to his busy schedule.
“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,” explained Matt.
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!” he added.
Matt, who is perhaps better known for his footballing rather than cycling skills, having played in the youth teams for Northampton Town, Nottingham Forest and Leicester City, 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.
“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,” explained Sue. “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!” she enthused.
This year’s ride, the tenth anniversary of the event, is taking place at Althorp on Sunday 22nd 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 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.