Ride High Partners with Santander Cycles MK to Introduce Free E-Bike Option at Ride MK Cycling Festival

Ride High, the Milton Keynes-based charity supporting vulnerable and disadvantaged children, has announced an exciting new partnership with Santander Cycles MK for the Ride MK Cycling Festival on Sunday, 29 June 2025. The collaboration will allow participants to ride Santander Cycles MK’s e-bikes for free on the 20-mile Red Route, making the event more accessible to cyclists of all abilities.

Set against the backdrop of Milton Keynes’ parkland, redways and canal paths, the Ride MK Cycling Festival is a celebration of cycling, fitness and fundraising in support of local children. Participants can choose from four routes: a 100-mile road route, a 50-mile road route, a 20-mile red route sponsored by Santander Cycles MK and a 1.6-mile Ready Set Go route for children, sponsored by Brioche Pasquier UK. Thanks to the new partnership, those tackling the 20-mile route can apply for a free e-bike, ensuring that more people—whether experienced cyclists or newcomers—can take part in the challenge with confidence.

Helen Dixon, Fundraising and Marketing Manager at Ride High, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Santander Cycles MK as a sponsor of the Ride MK Cycling Festival. This partnership allows us to offer a more inclusive experience, ensuring that even more people can enjoy the joy of cycling—whether they’re experienced riders or new to the sport. It’s a fantastic addition to our fundraising efforts and we’re incredibly grateful for Santander’s support in helping us raise vital funds for local children.”

Siobhan Beddow, Senior Sponsorship Manager at Santander UK, added: “We’re really excited to support this year’s Ride MK Cycling Festival. Being involved in initiatives like this, where we can give back to the Milton Keynes community, is a great privilege and something we’re very proud of. Good luck to everyone taking part!”

The Ride MK Cycling Festival will start and finish at Furzton Lake, where both cyclists and spectators can enjoy a vibrant festival atmosphere. Each participant will receive a medal in recognition of their achievement. The event is not only about cycling but also about making a meaningful impact in the lives of vulnerable children, with participants encouraged to raise funds to support Ride High’s work in Milton Keynes.

Registration for the Ride MK Cycling Festival is now open and individuals and teams are encouraged to sign up early. A guided group ride, led by an experienced cyclist, will also be available for those who prefer to ride with company.

For more information and to register, visit www.ridehigh.org/ridemk. To learn more about Santander Cycles MK, visit Santander Cycles MK.