FOUR fathers from Wrexham have set themselves a mission to cycle 1,000 miles in 10 days.
Richard Williams, Barry Jones, Mike Potts and Lee Gould will cycle from Lands End to John O’Groats for children’s charity Sparks, which raises money to fund research into paediatric medicine.
The pals have been training hard for the last six months and set off on their journey today.
Richard said: “This is the toughest physical challenge I have ever faced.
“What will keep us going is the thought that we are doing it for such an incredible charity.
“We are all fathers of healthy children, a blessing we are very grateful for.
“This challenge is our way of getting involved and making a difference to the children and their families who are not as lucky.”
The pals are already half way to their £10,000 fundraising target.
To boost the coffers Richard, Barry and Mike had their legs waxed by beautician Sam Nicklin, from 1st 4 Nails and Beauty in Chester.
Barry added: “Before we started training none of us were keen cyclists. We are not members of cycling clubs, and haven’t cycled regularly since we were children.
“Lands End to John O’ Groats is a bit of a challenge, but it is nothing compared to what the parents and families of those children assisted by Sparks experience and as such the four of us are proud to help in any way we can.”
Sparks funds research across the whole spectrum of paediatric medicine, including childhood cancers, childhood arthritis, meningitis, clubfoot, cerebral palsy, spina bifida and the risks associated with premature birth.
Sparks regional fundraiser Nia Williams said: “Each year in the UK, over 3,000 babies die before their first birthday.
“Our goal is for every child to be born healthy and stay healthy and the wonderful funds raised by Richard, Barry, Mike and Lee will help us to continue our pioneering medical research and enable us to touch the lives of those children who need our help.”
Pledge your support to the fathers at uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/SparksLEJOG