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Rugby duo’s static bike challenge raises vital funds for air ambulance

A father and daughter team have pushed the pedals over 1,084 miles – raising over £1,100 for the local lifesaving air ambulance.

Andrew and his wife Helen’s youngest daughter, Alys, was airlifted to hospital after an accident whilst on holiday, so at the beginning of this year, Andrew decided it was time to raise vital funds for the local Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance (WNAA) – to thank them for the lifesaving pre-hospital critical care they provide in the community.

“After my youngest daughter Alys was airlifted to hospital a number of years back, it has been in my mind to raise money for the local air ambulance as it’s such a vital service – and this felt like the ideal time to do it,” said Andrew.

With lockdown still in place at the time, Andrew decided to cycle the equivalent of Lands’ End to John O’Groats on an exercise bike in his garage alongside his eldest daughter, and Alys’ sister, Elinor – who cycled with him every step of the way.

Starting their mammoth challenge on 1st February, the duo cycled an average of 19 miles per day, completing the 1,084 miles in just 57 days.

The pair set a target of raising £1,084 – £1 for every mile – and through sheer hard work, determination, and the generosity of friends and family, Andrew and Elinor were delighted to have raised £1,188.

“I am very grateful to Elinor for completing this with me, and to Helen and Alys, and to everyone who donated, for their support too. I am very proud to say that not only did Alys make a full recovery, but she qualifies as a paramedic this summer,” added Andrew.

WNAA Community Fundraising Executive, Lee Bunting commented:

“Andrew and Elinor – with Helen and Alys as support crew – took on a big task of virtually cycling such a long distance in such a short space of time. To exceed their target is amazing and I would like to thank them again for their hard work and determination to raise as much money for us as possible”.

“We would like to express our thanks to everyone who donated and wish Alys well in her new career as a paramedic.”