A young cyclist was in York today as part of an epic ride to raise funds and awareness for mental health.
Leo Street, 14, is about halfway through a 486-mile ride from his home in Swanley, Kent, to Edinburgh.
Today was the York leg. His journey took him along The Mount and Queen Street to the railway station.
No stranger to amazing fundraising feats, Leo slept outside in his hammock every night during 2021, even when the temperature dropped to -6°C! That achievement raised £8,000.
Leo is raising money for Shout 85258. It is the UK’s only 24/7 text service for anyone struggling to cope with their mental health. He is a scout so he calls his fundraising campaign Scout For Shout.
“It’s a mental health charity which you text, which I thought was easier for people my age,” he told Laura and Leigh on this morning’s Breakfast Club on YorkMix Radio.
“During lockdown I changed from year six to year seven. And I was really worried, but I had my family to support me. But I know that some people don’t – so this charity was perfect.”
He’s been on the road since Sunday, with a planned finish on Easter Monday.
It’s taking its toll. “I’m freezing all the time!” Leo confessed. “Hotels honestly are my saviour – I turn the heater right up.”
His mum and nan are accompanying him on his cycle adventure, which has raised £1,000 so far. You can donate via his JustGiving page here.