A local man from Buxton will set off cycling from Land’s End to John O’Groats on June 13 to raise money for Help for Heroes.
Simon Blackley, a security guard at Buxton & Leek College, will spend 12 days in the saddle – averaging around 65 miles per day –and has been training asoften as possible around the local area. He said: “The preparation has been difficult but with weeks to go I’ve been tackling the hills to get me ready for the event.
“I used to cycle but I’m definitely not a cyclist. I’ve been riding up to 85 miles to make sure I’m in good shape.”
Along with 30 other cyclists, Simon will be travelling the furthest possible distance in the British Isles pedalling his way through Cornwall, the Welsh borders and skirting the Lake District before arriving in John O’Groats, covering roughly 1000 miles.
Help for Heroes is a cause close to Simon’s heart after serving in the Cheshire Regiment for 10 years. He said: “This is the perfect way to raise awareness, support the charity and give myself a challenge all at the same time.”
Simon has been supported by friends and colleagues with generous donations and has raised over £400 so far but hopes to be able to raise even more.
To support his journey donate at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Simon-Blackley1
