A CHARITY has been encouraging the public to "pedal against poverty" to raise money for its local food bank.

Horsham Matters launched its static cycle relay of 5,000km on Wednesday in the first of three events this week to help provide food for Horsham families during the school holidays.

The food bank has seen a huge increase in demand since the beginning of the pandemic, feeding 8,506 adults and children in the past year, compared with 2,900 the year before.

Fundraising officer for the charity Paula Daly said: “It really is vital to raise funds for the summer and Pedal Against Poverty is a fun way to play a part and help support those families who will struggle to feed their children over the long summer holiday period.”

The Argus: Becky Hughes cycled 10km in just over 30 minutes to raise money for Horsham foodbank

Becky Hughes took part in the relay on Wednesday as part of her role at Freeman Brothers Funeral Directors as community co-ordinator and said it was important to her to support such a good cause.

“It’s shocking that food has become such a privilege, when it’s a basic necessity for survival," she said. "There have been even greater pressures lately as the impact of Covid has been felt by so many people.”

Becky cycled 10km in just over 30 minutes and as an added incentive she will buy an item of food to donate to the food bank for each unique sponsor who supports her fundraising page

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The next relay event will take place on Friday at Bluecoats Sports Centre at Christ’s Hospital and then moves to Horsham Matters’ charity superstore in Redkiln Close in Horsham on Saturday.

The events are all outside, use static bikes that are thoroughly cleaned, and cycle slots are all pre-booked to avoid social contact.

Any cyclists are welcome to turn up to the events or the public can donate online.

Donations can still be made towards Becky's personal fundraiser at horshammatters.enthuse.com/pf/becky-hughes. To donate to Horsham Matters directly you can do so at horshammatters.enthuse.com/cf/pedal-against-poverty.