Simon’s all set for Paris challenge
ASOUTHPORT man is to take on the challenge of a lifetime when he cycles to Paris for charity.
Simon Dougherty and his friend, Ian Baker from Aintree, will ride 310 miles from London to the French capital later this month.
They are taking part in the ride to raise money for the Teenage Cancer Trust.
Simon is head of PE at Range High School in Formby and the school raises a lot of money for the charity in memory of two former pupils who lost their battles with cancer.
The year-round fundraising is the school’s way of remembering them and helping other children through the Teenage Cancer Trust.
Simon and Ian will set off from London for their fourday ride to the Eiffel Tower.
Simon said: “We wanted to raise money for Teenage Cancer Trust in memory of the pupils who we have sadly lost.
“It’s a fantastic charity, doing great work to help young people, and as a teacher who deals with youngsters all the time, and witnessing the effects of cancer first hand, it’s something that’s very close to my heart.
“The training has been fullon at times, and having an operation in April added to the challenge, but we are ready to do it and hopefully raise lots of money for a great cause.”
Ian who works with schools through Inspiresport said: “I have got to know Range High School very well, delivering their sports tours over the years and when Simon asked me to join him on this cycling challenge I jumped at the chance.
“Teenage Cancer Trust is a fantastic charity and fundraising for them being so closely connected with Range High School is a great thing to do.”
Teenage Cancer Trust is a cancer care and support charity in the UK that exists to improve the cancer experience of young people aged 13–24.
It was founded in 1990 and its key service is providing specialist teenage units in NHS hospitals.
Young people with cancer need specialised nursing care and support.
Teenage Cancer Trust is the only UK charity providing this, but at the moment it only has the resources to help half of young people diagnosed with cancer.
To donate, go to: www.justgiving. com/ fundraising/ simondougherty-ianbaker