A charity ride with more than two decades of history

The Tour de Vale has been one of Buckinghamshire’s best-known charity bike rides for more than two decades. In that time, the event has brought thousands of riders to Stoke Mandeville Stadium, raised more than £1 million for WheelPower, and helped fund opportunities for disabled people to be active through sport and physical activity.

In 2026, that story reaches its final chapter.

For past riders, volunteers and supporters, this final edition will be more than just another cycling event. It will be a chance to celebrate the legacy of something that has meant a great deal to WheelPower and to the wider community around Aylesbury and Buckinghamshire.

Why Tour de Vale is coming to an end?

The honest answer is that participation has declined in recent years and the financial return to the charity is no longer where it needs to be. Planning and organising an event of this size takes up a huge amount of time as well as financial resources.

Bringing the ride to a close is therefore not about a lack of pride in what it has achieved. It is about being open about today’s realities and making sure WheelPower focuses its energy and resources where they can do the most good for disabled people through sport.

A message from WheelPower CEO Martin McElhatton OBE

“The Tour de Vale has always been about people - riders, volunteers and supporters coming together year after year with a shared purpose. We’re humbled by the loyalty this event has inspired, and by the impact the money raised has had in helping disabled people get active. As we bring Tour de Vale to a close, our focus is on making the final event one to remember.”

The legacy of Tour de Vale

That legacy is significant. Since 2004, Tour de Vale has welcomed families, leisure riders, club cyclists and experienced endurance participants along signed and marshalled routes. The event has built a loyal following not just because of the cycling itself, but because people understood what their entry fees and fundraising helped make possible. WheelPower exists to create opportunities for disabled people to lead active and fulfilling lives through sport. Tour de Vale has played a meaningful role in supporting that work year after year.

What to expect from the final ride in 2026

The final Tour de Vale will carry the same inclusive spirit and community atmosphere that has defined the event for more than twenty years.

  • Entry prices will be held at 2025 levels
  • Medals for every rider
  • Four route options will be available, including a new 45km mid-distance challenge
  • Mechanical support on the day
  • Hand cyclists can take part free of charge
  • More than 100 volunteers will support the event on the day
  • Sports massage therapists at the finish
  • Bucks Radio will be on site helping to create a memorable atmosphere.

Every rider who takes part will help write the closing chapter of a much-loved charity event.

How you can support the final chapter

For some people, the best way to be involved will be to enter the ride and take part.

For others – especially those who support WheelPower’s mission but may not wish to cycle – there are other ways to contribute.

Donating to WheelPower helps ensure that the impact of Tour de Vale continues long after the final event has finished. While the ride may be coming to an end, the need for accessible sport and physical activity opportunities for disabled people remains as important as ever.

Do you have a few hours to spare on Sunday 7 June? We rely on the generosity of 100’s of volunteers to help us make this one last ride enjoyable and successful for everyone.  Please contact us if you can help.