BRECON’S annual Beast Mountain Bike event, held for the final time last September, has gone out with a bang raising a record amount of money that has been donated to local charities and good causes.
Ever since the event started in 2002 it has distributed money to local good causes and whilst not having a financial sponsor it has been successful in raising a sum of £115,000 in total over the 16 years it has been run (actual 14 events).
During the presentation ceremony held at Brecon Rugby Club on November 16, the organisers welcomed all the recipient groups that were to receive funding.
Additionally, all marshals and event helpers were invited as a big thanks you for their tremendous support they have given to the event over the years.
The success of the event has been down to the amalgamation of many individuals, voluntary organisations and local businesses who have turned out and together played a crucial role in making the Beast a success.
The money raised over the years has been increased year on year and this year a total of £17,000 was donated to several charities in the town.
It was pleasing to donate to the following:
Keith Morris Memorial Fund (local charity that helps and assists persons with disabilities) £7,000
Brecon Mountain Rescue Team (now in its 50th year of voluntary search & rescue services) £6,300
St David’s Hospice Care (Usk House) £1,000
Ysgol Penmaes £1,000
Brecon Lions £500
Westenders (theatre group that has been entertaining Brecon and surrounding areas for over 60 years) £500
Brecon Athletic Club £500
Kensington dementia group (to purchase a sound speaker) £200
The organisers of the Brecon Beast, Jason Thorne (bi-ped Cycles), Tom Forbes, Peter Morris, Crad Lowe, Alan Gardner and Kevin Harding send their whole hearted thanks to all that have contributed to the success of the event over the years.