Charity ride to spell out a tribute to Gary
THE Gary Whitehead Charity Bike Ride from Southport is taking on pancreatic cancer through a gruelling four-day bike ride today, covering 13 locations that spell out Gary’s name, today (Thursday).
From Great Harwood to Yockenthwaite, Waddington to Dukes Folly, more than 40 family members and friends on bicycles will leave at 9am from his shop, Southport Tiles on Seabank Road.
Gary’s family is determined to raise funds for faster diagnosis of the disease, said to be the deadliest common cancer .
The Gary Whitehead Charity Bike Ride chose to support the charity in memory of the family man, who died on February 17 after a late diagnosis of the cancer.
Gary – also known as Gaz – was a well-known and loved character in the town.
Familiar to many in the North West due to his business Southport Tiles, he also worked on the railway in Southport and played football for more than 10 local football teams, including The Ship, Birkdale, Hesketh Casuals FC and The Dales.
The 56-year-old’s funeral in March was attended by several hundred friends, family and supporters; many of whom are taking part in the charity ride.
Gary’s wife, Tracy, said: “This really will be emotionally and physically challenging for everyone involved.
“Gary was diagnosed too late for treatment and we are devastated by his untimely death.
“We want to help others avoid going through what we had to. We are overwhelmed with the support from friends, businesses and even strangers across Southport.
“Gary was loved by so many and this is being done in his honour.
“He would be very proud.” Sue Collins, director of fundraising at Pancreatic Cancer UK, said: “We are delighted The Gary Whitehead Bike Ride is supporting us and we would like to wish them the very best of luck.
“The funds raised will help us invest in vital research to see the breakthroughs we need, and be a voice for everyone affected by the disease.”
Local businesses CJ Cycles, CF Global, Ghandi Photography, Paul Yaffe, Sacrebleu , Bistrot Verite, The use of incorrectly sized components
Incorrect positioning of the implants
Unnecessary revision surgery
Inappropriate surgery
Unequal leg lengthening
Foot drop/reduced mobility
Inadequate warnings or discussions of the treatment risks / alternatives Unexplained pain resulting in referral to Pain Management
Fletchers Solicitors are one of the UK’s largest Medical Negligence law firms with over 400 years’ combined experience. We offer free consultations and expert advice with no obligation, and always work on a ‘no-win, no-fee’ basis. Replica Print, Leisure Lakes Bikes, Barrett & Coe Photographers, The Fig Bistro, Southport Embroidery Printing, Jon Karl Hairdressers, Hamlets Sandwich Bar, The Kicking Donkey, Southport Tiles, Sitting Pretty and Massage Therapy Rooms have all donated to the ride.
To support it, go to justgiving.com/fundraising/ gazwhitehead or facebook. com/GaryWhiteheadCharityBikeRide/