Winchester woman cycles across France to raise money for charity

As previously reported, Jane Hough, 75, cycled solo across France from Bordeaux to Sete. The journey took approximately two weeks, with Ms Hough, of Ruffield Close, Weeke, starting on May 25 and arriving home on June 12.

Ms Hough said: “There were many interesting places on the way. Carcassonne is magnificent and many smaller towns and villages full of history.

Jane Hough at Carcassonne (Image: Jane Hough)“The Canal du Midi is an amazing feat of engineering dating from the 17th and early 18th centuries. Meanwhile, at Beziers, I stayed in the old prison, repurposed as L'hotel de la Prison! That amused the grandchildren!”

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This is the 29th year in a row that Ms Hough has raised money for Christian Aid.

She said: “I raise money for Christian Aid because they can make really good use of it as they can rely on many faith-based and other voluntary helpers and can respond swiftly to emergencies as well as providing ongoing development help worldwide.

“My husband, who died six years ago, worked in over 50 developing countries advising on progressing the education systems. He went with a team of experts when a grant was to go from DFID or the European Commission. He made me aware of the appalling poverty and living conditions in so many countries.

“I feel motivated to help them as best I can.”

At time of writing, Ms Hough has managed to raise £1,713 for the charity. To donate, visit justgiving.com/page/jane-hough-2023.