Our Impact News Another flying success for DSAA’s Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge! Hundreds of eager cyclists took to the roads of Dorset and Somerset in participation of our annual Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge on Saturday, 10th of May. With 2025 marking our 25th anniversary, this year’s event was more special than ever! The route delivered its usual mix of peaceful back roads, leg-testing climbs, and thrilling descents. Riders of all ages and abilities took part, choosing either the 55-mile route from Watchet in Somerset to West Bay in Dorset, or a shorter 11-mile ride from Drimpton to West Bay. The atmosphere was fantastic from the very start. Crowds gathered in Watchet to cheer on the cyclists, and supporters lined the route, creating a wave of encouragement all the way to the finish line. Riders received warm welcomes at the three pit stops, Taunton, Ilminster, and Drimpton, where they could stop for refreshments and encouragement from the charity’s friendly team and volunteers. At the finish in West Bay, enthusiastic spectators cheered them across the finish line, celebrating their incredible efforts. Cyclists rode in teams, or solo - proudly raising vital funds through sponsorship and helping us to celebrate 25 years of saving lives in style. Many hold the charity close to their hearts, taking part in the event were former patients who had experienced the work of DSAA first-hand, others cycled in memory of loved ones or even as a personal challenge for a good cause. Each air ambulance mission is funded by donations from supporters like these participants. With no direct government funding and an average cost of around £3,500 per mission, events like Coast to Coast play a vital role in keeping the service flying. Since its launch in 2011, the event has raised over £350,000, to help provide critical care to those in urgent need across Dorset and Somerset. Who was first over the finish line? Bryn Miller Bryn Miller from Crewkerne was the first male to cross the finish line. Dr Olivia Cheetham The first female was DSAA's Dr Olivia Cheetham from Bristol. William Faulkner The first child across the finish line was William Faulkner from Liskeard. Alana Hardy, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance’s Events Officer praised the event and commended the efforts of participants: 'What another fantastic Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge. To those who took part: you should be very proud of what you have achieved. It is a tough route with some beautiful scenery. We also want to say a massive thank you for all those who took part and helped to organise the event, including our incredible volunteers and supporters.’ DSAA would like to thank all the riders, supporters, volunteers, and sponsors who made the day not only possible but truly outstanding. Special thanks go to: The Bathpool Inn, Carly Press Printing, Cotswold First Aid, Garador, Timewise, Glastonbury Spring Water, Hunts Food Group, Ilminster Ambulance Station, DocBike, Keep106, and The Royal Oak Pub, Drimpton. View Event Photos Here Manage Cookie Preferences