A team of eight local friends, family and colleagues have completed a 979-mile journey from Lands End to John O’Groats in just 10 days. The cycle was in memory of Matt Sharp, who passed away following a long battle with Leukaemia after being diagnosed at the age of 19.
Heading up the cycle was Matt’s father, Ian Sharp. He said: “We always thought this challenge was going to push us to our limits, but in reality, it surpassed our wildest expectations, particularly as the weather turned against us.”
Ian and the team had to endure terrible weather conditions for the duration of the challenge. “We were strongly advised to extend the nine days to the normal 14-day tour, but the team were adamant they wanted to attempt the harder challenge for the cause.”
The challenge formed part of the team’s wider efforts to raise an incredible £100,000 for Teens Unite who had the privilege of supporting Matt during his fight with cancer.
The fundraising target will enable Ian and his family to create a legacy. By raising £100,000 they will be able to fund a room in Matt’s name within a new facility, which will be built by Teens Unite.
It will be known as The House of Teens Unite and will be the UK mainland’s first purpose-built retreat specifically for teenagers and young adults who are fighting cancer. It will provide short term accommodation and offer unlimited access to the activities Teens Unite organises.
Ian said: “The room we are hoping to fund will be Matty’s legacy and will help the family to feel his short, but precious life was not in vain.”
Joining Ian on the Lands End to John O’Groats cycle was Lee Venables, Tim Venables, Phil Walker, Will Clarke, Kevin Claxton, Steve King and Tom Wakefield. They covered a staggering distance of between 99 miles to 119 miles each day.
The team set off from the rocky cliffs of Lands’ End, through the historic city of Bath, the stunning hills of Penrith and along the breezy coast of Tain, until reaching the most northern point of the UK; John O’Groats, where the finish line was waiting.
Ian has said: “I am humbled to have spent the last nine days with such a committed, selfless set of individuals. We would like to thank our family, friends and all those very special people that have helped, encouraged and supported us before and during this challenge.”
Collectively, the team has raised £40,000 so far. You can help them to reach their £100,000 target by clicking here.
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