A sponsored cycle ride has raised more than £55,000 for the East Anglian Air Ambulance.

The Beccles Cycle for Life has been held annually for the past 15 years, with a proportion of the proceeds being donated to the air ambulance.

The Rotary Club of Beccles, which organises the cycle ride, visited the charity's headquarters at Norwich Airport to hand over this year's cheque for £2,100.

The East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA) has been keeping a running total of the money raised for it from the event, which now stands at £55,289.50.

Emily Matthews, community fundraising lead in Suffolk for the EAAA, told the club: “Your continued support truly makes a huge difference to our charity and I cannot thank you enough.”

The charity's supporter engagement team also expressed their gratitude, saying: “Please pass on our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported Beccles Cycle for Life in 2024.

Beccles Cycle for Life raises more than £55k for EAAA Beccles Cycle for Life raises more than £55k for EAAA (Image: Picasa)

"Together you really will save lives.”

During their visit, the Beccles Rotarians had the chance to meet a couple of the air ambulance team, who explained the workings of the helicopter and the medical care they provide.

They were shown around the facilities and had the opportunity to see one of the rapid response vehicles used for incidents where the helicopter can not be deployed.

The sponsored cycle ride is set to return on May 11, 2025, with bookings now open.

Rotarian John Swanbury, who was part of the group visiting the EAAA headquarters, said: "There’s a suitable distance for everyone."

The event, which caters to all abilities, is already taking entries for next year's ride at a discounted price for those who register before the end of December.

Details of the various distances and how to sign up can be found on the Beccles Cycle for Life website, becclescycleforlife.org.