Bowled over for long cycle spin

A world class bowler is now rolling to a different beat for a 1000 mile cycle trip.

Craig England, 29, of Ayr, will set off cycling from John O’ Groats to Lands End on Sunday. The web developer is embarking on the epic challenge for mental health charity MIND.

The Northfield Bowling Club member is well known within the bowling circles as he was capped for Scotland at both under 25 and senior levels.

And he won the World Under 25 Bowling Championship in Australia in 2009.

Describing why he chose MIND to support, Craig said: “Mental health affects everyone young and old. It covers all bases. I was nervous about the cycle trip in July but now I’m going to treat it as a stroll through the countryside. I will mostly take B roads and take advantage of cycle pathways. No doubt there will be low points. I will be tired. But thinking about the charity will get me through.”

Craig plans to zoom the distance in 10 days and will turn 30 en route on August 21.

Dad Eddie England, a member of the Newton and Heathfield community council and the rest of Craig’s family will wave him off at John O’Groats.

Craig, a former Queen Margaret pupil, now lives in Edinburgh.

To support him, visit: www. justgiving. com/ fundraising/ mindcharitybikeride.