Mayor's charity bike ride across Kent
Published
Monday 2 March, 2026
Updated
Wednesday 13 May, 2026
Swale Borough Council officers took on a “Tour de Kent” to raise money for local domestic abuse charity Sateda, and Cancer Research UK.
The 170-mile challenge was organised by The Mayor of Swale, Cllr Karen Watson, to raise funds for her chosen charities.
The three-day ride set off from Swale House on 8 May, with the cyclists heading to the Isle of Sheppey before travelling to Tenterden, via Rochester, where they spent the night.
For the second leg of the tour they travelled to Rye, passing through the Romney Marshes, before arriving in Dover for the second night.
On the final day, the riders followed the coast from Dover travelling north, passing through Birchington-on-Sea, before continuing to Swale House where they ended their epic journey.
The mayor is asking for people to help support the two charities, who will receive 100% of the donations collected.
SATEDA is a local domestic abuse charity that helps women and children escape and heal from the violence and trauma they experience from the people closest to them.
Cancer Research UK is the world's leading independent cancer charity; dedicated to saving lives through research, influence and information.
You can help support the charities by donating to the bike ride online.
Cllr Karen Watson, Mayor of Swale, said:
“It has been an honour and a privilege to fundraise for these two amazing charities. Thank you to everyone who has helped me create awareness and offered their support throughout the year.
“The Mayoral bike ride is becoming an important annual event in Swale, giving people the opportunity to support Cancer Research UK and Sateda, whose missions are so close to my heart.
“This 170-mile challenge across Kent was gruelling. Most of the people taking part had never done anything like this before, and I'm incredibly grateful that they’re willing to put themselves through the challenge to give a much-needed financial boost to these incredible charities.
“The services the charities provide in Swale are simply invaluable and, having personal experience myself with domestic abuse, I can’t stress enough how important their ongoing work is.
“If you can, please donate to the bike ride. The charities, and I, would greatly appreciate any support you can offer.”
