Simon Gregory from Harrogate will be pedalling away amongst York’s shoppers and tourists as he steps up his preparations for an epic 1,000km bike ride later this month.
The 41-year-old is taking on his second challenge for Macmillan Cancer Support in memory of his Aunt, Reverend Ruth Scott, as he cycles from North-West Scotland to Winchester Cathedral on June 23rd.
Shoppers and sightseers in York City Centre will have the chance to chat to Simon and donate to his 1,000km challenge, which he aims to complete in a sub-48-hour time, with a fundraising target of £25,000.
“Things are really shaping up now and I’m excited for the challenge ahead,” said Simon. “It’ll be great to see people out and about and I can hopefully create a bit of a buzz and some curiosity over what I’m about to put myself through.
“The challenge itself is particularly poignant, as some of my Aunt’s ashes are scattered near Ardnamurchan Point in Scotland and the rest are interred at Winchester Cathedral.”
Describing his Aunt as his ‘second mum’, Reverend Scott was a well-respected priest and broadcaster, notably the co-host of BBC Radio 2’s ‘Pause for Thought’ for 25 years alongside Sir Terry Wogan and Chris Evans. Two years ago Simon raised more than £14,000 for Macmillan after cycling from Harrogate to University Hospital, Southampton in less than 24 hours.
Simon continued, “This is for my Aunty Ruth who battled T-cell lymphoma. She was an incredible lady who led the most remarkable of lives; as a circus clown, a midwife and then a priest. I want to raise £25,000 which could fund 101 Macmillan nursing days, so that Macmillan can continue to give the care and support to others, just like my Aunty received.”
For anyone wishing to stop by for a chat or to make a donation in person, Simon will be on his bike from 10am until 4pm on Parliament Street (close to Marks and Spencer) on Saturday 17th June, 2023.
You can donate £5 by texting ‘RUTH48’ to 70550 or visit www.justgiving.com/page/ruth48
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