Volunteer’s cycle challenge set to raise awareness of ex-racing dogs

LOCAL DOG LOVER TOBY BORAM WILL CYCLE 1,000 MILES FROM LAND’S END TO JOHN O’GROATS FOR GREYHOUND RESCUE WEST OF ENGLAND (GRWE)

A VOLUNTEER with the north west branch of Greyhound Rescue West of England (GRWE) is taking on a remarkable feat this summer – cycling Land’s End to John O’Groats in just 10 days.

But while others have pedalled the 1,000-mile route before, Chester’s Toby Boram isn’t your average lycra-clad super human; the teacher from the north of England is simply motivated by the dogs he loves.

“I’ve never done anything like this before; though I have been out training since last year,” said 51 year-old Toby.

“I wanted to draw attention to the amazing work of the GRWE team.

In the last 12 months we have happily rehomed 100 dogs in the north west, transforming their lives and those of the people who adopted them,” he explained.

“Last year, we were awarded the title ‘Animal Charity Team of the Year’. This made me feel very proud, and my quest is to raise awareness and funds for GRWE.

“The challenge is very exciting, but I am especially looking forward to the North West England section,” Toby added.

LOCAL SUPPORT

The mid-point of Toby’s route will see him on home territory when he rides into Cheshire on Saturday August 9. His GRWE colleagues have arranged a craft fair and dog show at the Frodsham Community Centre to spur on the intrepid volunteer.

“It’s a summer fair, so they’ve promised me free cake,” grinned Toby.

The fair will also feature a host of stalls, games and food to give Toby the

send-off he deserves as he sets off for the second half of his tour. After resting overnight in the comfort of his own bed, Toby and his entourage will journey through Stretton and Wigan en route to Penrith the next day.

The summer fair takes place on Saturday August 9 at Frodsham Community Centre, Fluin Lane, WA6 7QN.

If you would like to cheer Toby as he passes, route information can be found through www.facebook. com/tobygrwelejog.

Sponsoring the brave cyclist is easy at www.justgiving.com/ tobygrwelejog