London Bangla A Force for the community…
By Emdad Rahman
Mile End Stadium was bursting with energy as it hosted the London edition of Ready Steady Ride (RSR)—a heartwarming event that saw 230 children ride their bikes and scooters up to five miles to support global clean water initiatives.
The London ride is one of four major RSR events held across the UK, alongside Luton, Birmingham, and Bedford. Now in its fourth year, the initiative continues to grow in both size and spirit, with families returning year after year to take part in what has become a highlight in the community calendar.
Children aged 3 to 11 turned up in droves, some riding confidently, others learning to balance for the first time. Each participant received a special medal, and many came with colourful, hand made supporter signs and posters that added to the festival atmosphere. One parent remarked, “The crowd’s energy, the cheering, the smiles were simply contagious.”
The London event alone raised an astonishing £66,000, contributing to a nationwide total of £102,000 raised across all four cities. These funds go toward building water wells in underserved regions around the globe, giving access to one of life’s most basic needs.
Among the highlights of the day was a touching moment when a young participant shared a poem she had written for the occasion:
We put on our helmets
Laces tied
Hearts full of love
And arms open wide
With every step
With every mile
We carry their memory and share a smile
In addition to the ride, families took part in short races and fun challenges throughout the day.
A girls’ dash event saw one young runner raise £356 on her own, proudly supported by her family and peers.
Dr. Julia Fruer, Senior Lecturer in Health, Nutrition, and Exercise at the University of Bedfordshire, has praised the event’s deeper purpose:
“Ready Steady Ride creates a platform for kids to move joyfully while raising awareness about global issues. Encouraging active travel from a young age helps prevent chronic diseases and benefits both human and planetary health.”
Organisers Ready Steady Let’s Go and HAWAA reflected on how the event has evolved:
“Each year, the atmosphere just gets better. This was our biggest London turnout yet. Seeing the children so excited to help others while having fun is everything we hoped for when this journey began.”
Special thanks were extended to the Gale Family Charity Trust for their ongoing support, helping make the event possible.
For updates and upcoming events, visit:
🌐 www.readysteadyletsgo.org
🌐 www.hawaa.org
