A record number of 184 riders joined this year’s KSS Ride to raise funds for Air Ambulance Charity Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS).

Participants enjoyed a scenic eight-mile route through the Bilsington Priory Estate near Ashford, on Sunday 13 July, raising more than £12,000 to support the charity’s life-saving work.

There were optional canter strips and as it was hacking, the mileage completed in this sponsored ride counted towards a rider’s #Hack1000Miles tally.

Making a difference

“We’re thrilled with this year’s turnout,” said Lauren Simmons, head of events at KSS.

“Every rider, supporter and volunteer made a real difference, helping us continue to deliver lifesaving critical care to those who need it most.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the generosity and community spirit shown.”

Funded through supporters

It costs KSS £56,000 a day to operate its life-saving service 24/7 and it is largely funded through the generosity of its supporters.

Funds raised from the KSS ride will allow the Air Ambulance charity to continue to provide lifesaving emergency services across Kent, Surrey and Sussex.

In 2023-24 they attended over 3,300 incidents.

All finishers received a special rosette and those riders who raised over £50 in sponsorship were presented with a KSS Ride saddle tag.

Raising £50 could pay for a set of defibrillator pads to help resuscitate someone experiencing cardiac arrest. £150 could buy a vacuum splint to stabilise a damaged limb.

KSS would like to thank everyone who supported the event, including Bilsington Priory Estate, St John Ambulance, Saracen Feeds, GW Highways, ARW Photography, Faversham Ices, and the many volunteers and local businesses who made the day possible.

For details of other KSS fundraising events visit the charity’s events page.

Image © KSS.

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