Bradford & District | Archive | 2006 | March | 9
From the archive, first published Thursday 9th Mar 2006.
A KEEN cyclist is planning a 10,000-mile trip through almost 40 European countries to raise money for the charity Cancer Research UK.
Graeme Rose, from Clifton Road, Ilkley will be leaving next week to begin the gruelling challenge of cycling through much of Europe.
Mr Rose will be setting off from Ilkley on Tuesday and plans to complete the 10,000 mile challenge in eight months before biking back to a warm reception from friends and family.
He has been a keen cyclist for most of his life and has participated in many races and competitions, but always dreamt of doing a long cycling tour.
Mr Rose made the decision to follow his dream in Autumn 2005 and has spent the last few months planning the journey, deciding to raise funds for Cancer Research UK at the same time.
He resigns his job as a director of Leeds-based waste management company 3B Waste this week to concentrate on preparing for the trip.
While he admits to being a little apprehensive about travelling by cycle through some of the more lawless, isolate parts of Europe he will be accompanied for some of the trip by fellow Ilkley resident Matt Miles.
"I am apprehensive and nervous because what was just an idea is now turning into reality but it is all part of the fun," said Mr Rose.
He added: "I decided to support Cancer Research UK through my challenge because my mother Anne Reynolds was diagnosed with breast cancer three years ago.
"Mum has fought the disease with immense determination and courage but this isn't always enough and it is difficult to predict what will happen to mum's health in the future.
"The trip will be tough but it's something I've wanted to do for years and I'm really looking forward to finally achieving one of my life goals."
The funds raised will go towards Cancer Research UK's breast cancer research programme, which seeks to understand the causes of the disease and investigates how it can be best prevented and treated.
Sally Hutton, Community Fundraiser for Cancer Research UK, said: "I'm so pleased that Graeme has decided to support Cancer Research UK in this exciting way, and I wish him the best of luck with this huge challenge."
Sally continues: "Cancer Research UK is the UK's leading funder of research into all aspects of breast cancer, and the good news is our research has helped death rates to fall by a fifth in the last ten years. This is only possible with support from people like Graeme and his sponsors."
Anyone wishing to sponsor Graeme or keep track of his progress can do so by visiting www.cycle4cancer.com or by contacting Cancer Research UK on 0113 231 9828.
© Newsquest Media Group 2008