The 13 to15-year-olds from Hummersknott School will be cycling from Lands End to John O’Groats in June 2009 to raise money for the Teenage Cancer Trust and although fundraising for the trip is going well, they need help from businesses to sponsor the bikes they will be using.
To prepare for the 1,000 mile journey, which they aim to complete in 15 days, the team of 15 pupils are being put through their paces with on-road distance training.
The group is also learning about cycle maintenance, first aid and cycle proficiency. The youngsters are also planning the route themselves, setting the daily mileage and booking accommodation, and getting involved in the fundraising for the event.
So far they have obtained £4,500 from the Dosh fund, £600 from Connexions, £300 from White Green and Young, and £600 from Walter Thompson and Baileys. The Army has given £1,500 to sponsor five bikes and is also providing fitness training sessions. Sherwood’s has offered the loan of a van to be used as a support vehicle during the trip.
However, the team needs to have a pool of road bikes to be used not just for the trip, but to train on.
The bikes will be bought from BikeSport in Darlington for £300 each. Companies who sponsor the bikes will have their name and logos on them, as well as custom made jerseys to be worn by the cyclists.
Councillor Chris McEwan, Darlington Council’s Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “This is an extraordinary challenge for these pupils, and for a very good cause. I hope local businesses will come out in support of them and sponsor the bikes.”
Businesses interested in sponsoring a bike can contact Gary Morley, Darlington Council’s Youth Worker on (01325) 246473 or 07855 434446.