CARING Evesham cyclists will embark on a coast to coast challenge to raise funds for a cancer charity.
The remarkable journey will take the Vale riders from Aberystwyth to Great Yarmouth in under four days over the Easter weekend with all proceedings going to Delete Blood Cancer UK who register potential blood stem cell donors to help save the lives of those with a blood cancer.
Adam Flood and Paul Weetman from Evesham along with fellow county cyclist Chris George will start the incredible feat at the historic Aberystwyth pier before pedalling through Ceredigion, Shropshire, Worcestershire, Warwickshire, Northamptonshire, Cambridgeshire and finally Norfolk, crossing the finish line at Great Yarmouth’s Britannia Pier.
The cycle challenge was conceived and organised by Mr Flood after being inspired by an appeal for toddler Margot Martini last year.
“My other half was pregnant with our first child at the time, and for some reason it really struck a chord,” he said.
“I just thought crikey, that could have been our little one, I know that sounds a bit dramatic but it’s a real issue family’s have to deal with.”
“I’m in an office of 30 people and just thought why don’t I get them all signed up to Delete Blood Cancer UK, but with it costing £40 to register I looked into fund-raising the money.
“I was 20 stone when I first began cycling and after a few long distance bike rides everything just spiralled out of control really and now I find myself and the team ready to face 80 miles a day plus the 5000ft we have to climb in the first two days.
“We’ve had so much support with companies wanting to help out including Aston Coaches who are giving us a discount on making the trips, Wenlock Spring are providing us with water and Margot’s father Yaser Martini, the founder of Team Margot who will be riding with us, has went out of his way to provide us all with our own jersey to support the cause.”
Paul added: “Training for the this epic coast to coast journey has been, at times, an emotional roller coaster with many ups and downs.
“However, it is nothing compared to what many families go through dealing when with the effects of blood cancer.
“This is what has inspired me most to raise awareness and much needed funds for Delete Blood Cancer UK. Let’s delete blood cancer!”
The company Mr Flood’s works for, VolkerFitzpatrick has also pledged its support to the cycle challenge by donating the use of a support vehicle for the riders.
The men will be joining a team of cyclists in clocking up more than 300 miles on the route that begins on Good Friday (April 3) and finishes on Easter Monday (April 6).
To donate online and support the cycle challenge visit https://give.everydayhero.com/uk/C2CforDBCUK or to find out more about the work of Delete Blood Cancer UK visit www.deletebloodcancer.org.uk
