Round-the-world cyclist Mark on his bike to raise £200k for NHS charities

Perthshire cyclist Mark Beaumont is on track to raise more than £200,000 for NHS charities by recreating his famous bike journey around the world – from his living room.

The fastest man to ever circumnavigate the globe by bicycle is replicating a day of his world recordbreaking ride every Thursday during lockdown, with the help of some sporting friends.

The former Dundee High School pupil has been joined by more than 400 people for the World In One Day challenge and this week’s edition will see Paralympians Steve Bate MBE and Mel Nicholls, as well as female round-the-world record holder Jenny Graham, take on the 240-mile challenge.

Mark, from Blairgowrie, said the response to the initiative, which has so far raised £167,000 in two weeks, has been “overwhelming” with participants clocking up 36,000 miles for charity – the equivalent of travelling twice around the world.

Last week, 150 rowers led by ocean adventurer John “Mad Giraffe” Davidson covered a combined 3,000 miles, the same distance as crossing the Atlantic.

Mark said: “Initially, the plan was for 80 cyclists to come together each Thursday to travel 18,000 miles on their indoor bikes, but after week one, it was immediately clear that so many more people wanted to get involved.

“The response has been overwhelming. Last week we had not only hundreds of cyclists taking part, but 150 rowers at home, putting a shift in for the charity.

“Now, I am inviting anyone with a home trainer to join the ride, be inspired by the online community involved and #donateyourmiles for NHS staff and volunteers caring for Covid-19 patients.

“I truly believe we can go Around the World twice in One Day. Take part this Thursday, or any Thursday during lockdown.”

Ellie Orton, chief executive of NHS Charities Together, said: “I’m really humbled by all the efforts from cyclists across the country to raise money for our appeal through the World in a Day challenge, and to Mark Beaumont for putting the hours in on the saddle to support it.

“This is a phenomenal amount to raise so far, and hopefully worth all the sweat and strain. That money will help NHS charities do even more to support staff, volunteers and patients as they continue to battle the Covid crisis.”

Around the World in One Day will continue for the duration of lockdown. To register, visit worldinaday.com