Kentish Express Ashford & District

Cyclists give their all for charity in marathon feat

- By Vicky Castle

In fewer than seven days, four friends cycled a whopping 918 miles from John O’Groats to Land’s End.

S t e v e J a mes, Dec l a n McGlone, Paul England and Neil Lauder took on the mammoth challenge in aid of Pilgrims Hospices, Diabetes UK and The Fire Fighters Charity.

The team, who called themselves JOGLE, (John O’Groats to Lands End) have raised an impressive £3,186.92 between them.

Firefighte­r Will Parkinson drove the support vehicle and the team camped at fire stations across the country.

Steve James, who initially planned a lone cycle ride, said: “I chose to support Pilgrims and have raised funds for them in the past because I have a personal connection with their charity.

“My father-in-law Brian Else died in the Ashford hospice in 2013 and the care he and my wife received was fabulous. Not just physical, but emotional care too.

“So I do what I can to help others receive the same support.

“I would like to thank Declan, Neil, Paul and Will for making the whole experience so special.

“I would also like to thank everyone who has supported me and helped me achieve and surpass my target.”

Deirdre Mewse, fundraisin­g and marketing assistant: “The Pilgrims Hospices says a huge thank you to the team for their tremendous effort. I hope their legs are not too sore. It has been lovely to read about their adventures each day.

“Pilgrims needs to raise £11 million per year to provide our services so we are really grateful for wonderful contributi­ons like this from Steve and his friends.”

There is still time to donate online by visiting www.justgiving.com/teams/ joglejune2­015.

 ??  ?? START: Steve James, Neil Lauder, Paul England and Declan McGlone at John O’Groats
START: Steve James, Neil Lauder, Paul England and Declan McGlone at John O’Groats
 ??  ?? FINISH: The cyclists at Land’s End after a gruelling 918 miles
FINISH: The cyclists at Land’s End after a gruelling 918 miles
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