Birkenhead Bus Driver Swaps Four Wheels for Two
A bus driver from Birkenhead has embarked on an epic four-day cycling challenge to raise money for life-saving cancer research in the North West.
Jeff Daniels, 57, is taking part in North West Cancer Research’s Cycle of Hope which will see him complete a 300-mile journey in honour of his sister and best friend who have battled and recovered from cancer.
On 4 July, Jeff began the four-day route that saw a peloton of fundraisers cycle through three countries from Liverpool to Dublin.
The route started at Liverpool’s iconic Pier Head, through the English and Welsh countryside before the final leg of the journey in Dublin, Ireland.
As an experienced cyclist, Jeff regularly cycles to help him stay healthy in both mind and body and frequently cycles more than 100 miles in a day. Despite his experience, he has never undertaken a challenge of this scale that will see him cycle for four days consecutively.
Jeff said: “When I first saw a friend’s post about Cycle of Hope on Facebook, I thought it seemed like an impossible challenge, but I wanted to push myself to do something out of my comfort zone that would help others.
“I began training in preparation for the challenge in March by cycling long distance routes after work and on the weekends, and I have also taken up running to build my fitness and stamina.
“I know the hills I will come up against throughout the journey will be physically challenging, but I can’t wait to cross the finish line and raise as much money for North West Cancer Research and the vital research the charity funds across the North West.”
To raise as much money as possible Jeff is asking his fellow bus drivers at Arriva to dig deep into their pockets, as well as asking his family and friends to rally support in their own workplaces with hopes to raise more than £1600.
Alastair Richards, CEO of North West Cancer Research, said: “Following the success of last year’s Cycle of Hope, it was a no brainer to bring it back for a second year.
“We already have a great team of cyclists, all with their own reasons for wanting to take part. Whether they have seen the impact cancer can have on families or know the importance of research into the disease.
“Jeff’s enthusiasm for the challenge is great to see and his support will help North West Cancer Research continue to fund life-saving research across the North West. We wish all the riders taking part the best of luck.”
Sponsored by Rutherford Cancer Centres who operate a national network of cancer centres, the cyclists will cover England, Wales and The Republic of Ireland between 4-7th July 2019.