Moorland Federation Celebrates Extraordinary Community Support During “Heads Up for Air Rescue” Charity Bike Ride

The Moorland Federation is celebrating an unforgettable day of community spirit, resilience and generosity, following the success of its Heads Up for Air Rescue charity bike ride held on Tuesday 2nd December.

Three of our Heads of School, Mr James, Mr Jon Moise-Souch, and Mrs Lucy Walker-Blair, completed the full route, cycling to all eight Moorland Federation schools in a single day to raise funds for the Air Ambulance. The riders were honoured to be joined by Matt Price, who completed the entire challenge alongside them, making them a “fantastic four” throughout the journey.

From the moment the riders set off, the support from our school communities was exceptional. At each stop, pupils poured out onto playgrounds, fields and car parks to deliver some of the loudest cheering the Federation has ever heard. Every school pulled out all the stops — hand-painted signs, banners, flags, and homemade cakes awaited the cyclists at each arrival and departure.
Not to be outdone, Minehead Middle School’s Year 6 pupils lined the roadside to give the riders a tremendous welcome as they passed, adding to the energy and excitement of the day.

Along the route, residents stepped out onto driveways and village lanes to wave, clap, and shout encouragement, creating a sense of community unity that carried the team through every mile.

The weather, however, delivered a challenge of its own. As the riders approached Dulverton, they were met with harsh rain, biting winds, and stinging cold, conditions that stayed with them all the way to Langford Budville. Yet, in a fitting end to the day, the clouds broke and sunshine welcomed them across the finish line — a powerful moment that reflected the determination and heart behind the entire challenge.

Trying to sum up the emotion of the day is difficult. To say we are proud doesn’t begin to capture the heroic resilience, spirit and dedication shown by the riders, nor the extraordinary support from children, staff, families and the wider community.

Click here to view a video of the day.

Thanks to this incredible effort, and with Gift Aid included, our fundraising total has reached £3,220. We are now hoping to surpass £3,500, which would cover the cost of a single Air Ambulance mission — something that would mean the world to everyone involved in this challenge.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to:

• Every pupil and member of staff who cheered, clapped, baked, created signs or supported on the day.
• The families and wider community who came out in the cold to wave the riders on.
• Local businesses who donated so generously.
• Everyone who has shared, donated, and encouraged us throughout this journey.

The kindness, enthusiasm and unity shown across Exmoor and West Somerset has been truly inspiring. This event has highlighted the strength of our community and the incredible impact we can achieve when we come together for a vital cause.

Donations remain open, and any additional support — no matter how small — brings us closer to funding that single, life-saving mission.
‍Click Here To Donate

‍