Three school heads from the Moorland Federation are trading their desks for handlebars as they embark on a challenging cycle ride across Exmoor to raise crucial funds for Somerset’s air ambulance service.
On Tuesday, December 2, the trio will journey through all eight schools within the Moorland Federation, a network of rural primary and first schools serving communities across West Somerset and Exmoor. The route will start in Porlock and continue through Dunster, Timberscombe, Cutcombe, Exford, Dulverton Junior, All Saints, before concluding at Langford Budville, all while navigating the area’s famously hilly terrain.
Participating in this endurance ride are Mr. James, Head of Dunster First School; Mr. Jon Moise-Souch, Head of Langford Budville Primary School; and Mrs. Lucy Walker-Blair, Head of St Dubricius First School in Porlock, who will join part of the route. Pupils and staff at each school are expected to rally behind the riders with enthusiastic support.
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“The air ambulance team performs incredible work throughout West Somerset,” said Mr. James. “For many families in our area, their rapid response is not just vital but life-saving. Given our rural location, conventional emergency access can be difficult, so this service is truly indispensable.”
Funded entirely by public donations, the Somerset air ambulance provides swift emergency care to remote locations where traditional vehicles cannot easily reach.
“We wanted to raise both funds and awareness,” explained Mr. Moise-Souch. “Our students are thrilled to contribute, creating posters, banners, and organizing mini-fundraisers at each school.”
The Moorland Federation encompasses schools in Dulverton, Exford, Cutcombe, Timberscombe, Dunster, Porlock, and Langford Budville. The leadership team believes this cycling challenge exemplifies the Federation’s core values of community, collaboration, and resilience.
“This initiative perfectly captures what our Federation represents: teamwork, community spirit, and courage,” said Mrs. Pravato, Chief Operations Officer for the Moorland Federation. “It gives us a meaningful way to unite and express our gratitude to a highly valued service.”
Supporters can contribute online via the Federation’s website. The Federation’s social media channels will provide live updates throughout the event.