VISITORS, residents and staff at a Ringwood care home got in the saddle for the Alzheimer’s Society.

A static bike at St Ives House, a Care South home, was put in place for a fundraiser throughout September – Dementia Awareness Month.

The participants aimed to ride 200 miles through a virtual New Forest across the month to raise money for Alzheimer’s Society research and care.

Staff from St Ives House, alongside residents and a handful of visitors, took part to add miles to the total distance.

Star cyclist Dan Banks, a care team leader, contributed a total of 90 miles to the route.

Staff from the AFC Bournemouth Community Sports Trust team participated in the cycle when they visited the home for an activity session with the residents.

And the team reached the 200-mile target, raising £365 in the process, with donations still ongoing.

Emma Cotton, manager at St Ives House, said: “Keeping active is good for the mind and body, and we encourage residents to participate in light exercise and sports when they can.

“This initiative is a fun way of doing light activity in support of a good cause, whilst also creating a group exercise for all to enjoy.

“We’re proud to support the vital research into dementia and look forward to supporting the Alzheimer’s Society in future with other fundraising initiatives and events.”