On Thursday, 26th June, local fundraiser Valerie Allen visited the Rotary Club of Ely at Ely Bowls Club to share her incredible “80 to 80” challenge — an 80km cycle ride to mark her 80th birthday, raising £3,000 (with Gift Aid) in aid of ShelterBox.
Her challenge involved eight round trips between Pymoor and Little Downham, proving that age is no barrier when it comes to determination and compassion. Even after taking a tumble due to a pothole, Valerie dusted herself off and carried on. Following the challenge, she donated her original bike to a charity that refurbishes bicycles and ships them to Africa — giving it a new life and purpose.
A Lifetime of Fundraising
Valerie’s commitment to charitable causes spans five decades. She began with sponsored walks 50 years ago and has since completed:
- The Milton Keynes Half Marathon for World Vision
- Three London Marathons in her 70s
- The Great North Run for Action for Children
- 40 nights in a tent in February snow, raising £2,000 for ShelterBox
Her selfless efforts have now earned her a BBC Radio Make a Difference Award nomination, recognising her extraordinary contribution to others — a truly worthy nominee.Rotary Club Welcomes New President
The evening also marked a change in leadership at the Rotary Club of Ely. Outgoing president Viv Doji was warmly thanked for her dedication over the past year and presented with a bouquet of flowers. Phil Smith was welcomed as the club’s new president for the coming year.
Get Involved with Rotary Ely
The Rotary Club of Ely hosts regular guest speakers and welcomes new members who are passionate about giving back to the community.
📧 Contact: info@rotaryclubofely.co.uk
📱 Facebook: Rotary Club of Ely
