Groom-to-be’s epic cycling feat for suicide charity
A GROOM-TO-BE from Widnes whose big day was scuppered by lockdown has turned his efforts to take on an epic charity feat dedicated to friends affected by family tragedy.
Stephen ‘Ste’ Lomas has attracted the support from the world of sport and show business too including a message from a weather presenter and a retweet from former Olympic cyclist Chris Hoy.
Ste, 48, is riding an exercise bike the equivalent distance of John O’Groats to Land’s End to raise cash for the charity Papyrus Prevention Of Young Suicide.
He had embarked on the challenge having admitted he has not exercised properly for 25 years.
On May 1, he began cycling 20 miles a day in his bedroom at home in Widnes, aiming to complete 1,000 miles over 50 days.
The challenge was due to finish on June 19, which was supposed to be his wedding day before lockdown scuppered his plans for his big day.
Ste, who works as a steward at Jaguar Land Rover Sports And Social Club on Cronton Lane, set himself an initial target of £1,000 for Papyrus but has already reached nearly £3,000.
Discussing his quarter-century hiatus from exercise, Ste said: “Let’s just say I’m not built like an athlete, but what I lack in physique I make up for in sheer pedal power and determination.
“I was looking for something to do during lockdown and the next thing I know I’m cycling the length of the country for charity.”
He said: “That’s the day me and my fiancée Helen should have been getting married but it’s been postponed because of the lockdown.
“It’ll be a day of mixed emotions when I finish the bike ride but I’m determined to do it and raise as much money as I can.
“A couple of my friends lost their children to suicide and so this is dedicated to them.
He added: “Papyrus does some great work around suicide prevention and I’d just like to say thank you to everyone who has supported me and continues to donate money.
His efforts have reaped hug support.
He said: “I’ve really been spurred on by their good wishes, especially during the recent hot weather when I’ve been sweltering inside the house, doing my 20 miles a day and never seeing the scenery change.
“I used to play rugby, but then there were rest days in between.
“There’s no rest days doing this.
“Physically it’s getting easier as I get that little bit fitter but mentally it is getting harder, so any support is really appreciated.
“Hopefully I’ll also inspire others to do something like this and raise some money for a good cause.”
Support Ste and other Papyrus fundraisers by visiting www. papyrus-uk.org