Tom’s cycle ride returns
A CALL has gone out to for people who may want to take part in a special 10 year anniversary re-run, of a 92-mile bike ride in memory of Loughborough teenager Tom Walker.
In May 2010, more than 160 cyclists took part in a sponsored cycle ride from Loughborough to Skegness to raise funds for the Bone Cancer Research Trust after Tom lost his battle with osteoarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer.
The amount raised was an amazing £67,000.
Now, 10 years on a repeat ride will take place on Saturday, May 30, to keep the memory of Tom alive and raise funds once again for this small and hardworking charity.
Efforts have been made through posters and social media to contact as many of the original cyclists as possible, and the organisers are trying to spread the word even further to those who may still be unaware of the event.
A spokesperson for the organisers told the Echo: ”A decade later many of the original cyclists are now training again, with friends and family of all ages joining them in the challenge.
“Tom would have loved the idea of the bike ride, seeing so many of his friends joined together for such a good cause, but best of all he would have loved the party at the end.”
Tom, 18, who attended Burleigh Community College, had a keen interest in rugby, always had a positive outlook on life, despite many long months of chemotherapy and the amputation of his arm, before passing away in February 2008, aged 18.
Tom was awarded the WellChild award in his age group in 2007. The WellChild Awards, celebrate the inspirational qualities of the UK’s seriously ill children and young people, along with those who go that extra mile to make a difference to their lives.
He also received the prestigious Diana award, which was set up in memory of Diana, Princess of Wales and her belief that young people have the power to change the world.
• If any readers took part in the original ride and are able to join the event, either as cyclists, or supporters, please go to www.skegvegas2020.co.uk