Cycling marathon in mum’s memory
Team forget me not reach Land's End after cycling more than 1,000 miles in ten days: pictured from left are: Damian Fishwick, Chris Southworth, Tony Roberts, Darren Roberts and Richard King.
A DETERMINED dad has battled rain, hail – and even sleet – to complete a 1,045 mile bike ride for charity in memory of his mum.
Market Rasen dad-of-three Darren Roberts cycled from John O’Groats in Scotland to the furthest point in the south west of England, Land’s End – in just ten days.
The 39-year-old has raised £4,100 for the Alzheimer’s Society in memory of his mum Jean, from Manchester, who died last year aged 69. The charity funds research into the disease and provides support to people affected by dementia.
Darren – a communications manager for Eastern Airways at Humberside Airport – did the cycle ride with three friends who formed Team Forget Me Not. There had been a fourth member but he was forced to drop out after breaking his ankle.
Darren said: “It’s the toughest challenge I’ve ever undertaken, requiring stamina and endurance, but I was extremely determined and also elated with our efforts as the cause means so much to me. I’m sure my mum would have been very proud of our achievement.
“It’s been an amazing journey and the team bonded magnificently. We’ve tried our best to raise awareness of this terrible illness, not only through fundraising before the challenge, but also picking up donations along the road and talking to people about Alzheimer’s.”
The support team of two, which included Darren’s dad, Tony, not only navigated the riders, but cooked roadside food, replenished energy drinks for the team and organised accommodation.
The team had three punctures, one tyre replaced and a broken rear gear mechanism during the 10 days.
Alzheimer’s Society director of fundraising Liz Showell said: “We are extremely grateful to Team Forget Me Not and all their time and energy they have put into this epic cycle ride for us. As a charity we rely on the generosity of individuals and groups like this to help us care for people today and find a cure tomorrow.
“One in three people over 65 will die with dementia. It is more than just memory loss; it robs people of their lives and has a devastating impact on families and loved ones. Please back Darren and Team Forget Me Not in their fundraising efforts so we can continue leading the fight against dementia.”
Darren is hoping to raise at least £5,000 for the Alzheimer’s Society. To make a donation visit justgiving.com/teamforgetmenot.
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Weather for Market Rasen
Thursday 20 June 2013
Today
Light rain
Temperature: 12 C to 16 C
Wind Speed: 14 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Light rain
Temperature: 13 C to 20 C
Wind Speed: 14 mph
Wind direction: West
