25 September 2026
Lions Legend Calls on USPRFC for Charity Bike Ride Support
Written by D Thompson
USP Rugby recently welcomed rugby legends Peter Winterbottom and Rob Henderson as part of the Paris 4 Paris charity cycle ride from London to Paris in support of MND charities. After a well-earned stop at Burnaby Road, the riders continued their journey to raise awareness and funds for the fight against Motor Neurone Disease.
Following a phone call out of the Blue, I was put in touch with Peter Winterbottom. Yes! England and British and Irish Lion, Peter Winterbottom.
He was leading a charity cycle ride from London to Paris (10 - 13 Sep) in aid of MND Charities. He was joined by around 25 riders, including Irish legend Rob Henderson.
They were looking for somewhere to have a shower after a long day in the saddle. Clearly USP Rugby and Burnaby Road was the perfect location. They arrived early evening and were on good form. The bar was open and we also laid on some food.
Showered, with full bellies and in high spirits they thanked us for our hospitality and support and headed off in the darkness to take the ferry to France.
"It was great to meet Wints (I can call him that now), Rob and the rest of the riders and to help support them on their ride. Also to help support a good cause, which affects many families,” said USP Chairman Cdr Dave Thompson.
Paris 4 Paris: Supporting MND
Former GB acrobatic gymnast Paris won multiple national titles and silver medals at both the European and World Championships before being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) in 2017, aged 26.
Despite the progressive condition, Paris continues to defy the odds nearly nine years later. Now reliant on a wheelchair and daily care, she remains determined and inspiring, supported by her husband Dan, family and friends.
The Paris 4 Paris campaign is raising awareness and support for MND research, helping fund the search for a cure while celebrating Paris's courage and resilience.
There is a dedicated group of riders and support crew who have made this ride possible so please allow me to introduce the riders:
Peter O'Keefe, Tim Wilkinson, Patsy Clein, Rob Henderson, Shaun Wolf, Clive Lever, Paul Stronge, Russ Kesley, Chris Buckingham, Austin Fawcett, Michael Goldie, Chris Gore, Steve Newbold, Pat Kennedy, Davy Jones, Duncan Jones, Ed Pockney, Eliot Naish, Graham Harle and Togo Keynes.
...and of course, the support crew: Peter Winterbottom, Jon Mitchell and Dave Weighell