On 22nd June, a team of 500 cycled from Wolverhampton to Aberdovey, including Blind Dave and our trustee Steve Dugmore, as part of the annual Aberdovey Bike Ride.

Very early next morning Dave cycled back to raise money for Changing Our Lives and in memory of our good friend and trustee Liz Mabley. The 15 strong team included members of Liz's family who had never cycled before. Word arrived that the cyclists were nearby and a crowd gathered in anticipation. It was an amazing sight as they came towards The Public and even more emotional as they crossed the finish line to cheers and tears. What an achievement!

Melissa Mabley said, "I'm overwhelmed by all the support, it was a fantastic team effort... Thanks to Dave and Steve for their supportive words and laughter, the rest of the Mabley family, the camper van crew and Changing Our Lives for a fantastic welcome".

The People's Orchestra had entertained everyone during the afternoon, starting with a beautiful harp solo, and theme tunes on woodwind and brass. They did a superb job. Congratulations to Charlotte on completion of her two week challenge to learn the saxophone. It was great to hear the result!

Over 200 people attended a lively Open Mic night. The evening opened in style with musical theatre student Catherine Roberts. Performances followed from Colleen Johnson, Simon Quinton, Maxine Price, Lesley Tompkins, and Ashley Hillman. Matt Doleman entertained everyone with his comedy routine and Born to be Different were our first group of the night. During the interval Urban Fusion and Broadway rocked the house with a street dance set. Terry Powell, David Westbury, Alan Slim, Stephen Winsper, Gemma Babies and William Horncastle (aka Elvis) continued the show. Performing Arts did an excellent dance routine, which got everyone clapping along and Gemma Caffrey finished with a West Side Story song. It's going to be a hard job to select the acts to perform in the Spotlight Final on 9th November.

It was a fantastic day - a huge thank you to everyone that contributed and made it so special.

All the photos are on http://www.flickr.com/photos/changingourlives/sets/72157630279369040/