27 May 2022 Community

Craig Garnett takes on a 900 mile cycle challenge to raise funds for The Kirkwood

This summer, dedicated supporter Craig Garnett is putting his metal to the pedal as he looks to complete the Land's End to John O'Groats bike ride and raise funds for The Kirkwood.

Craig, who has turned 60 this year, is excited for the gruelling challenge which will take him on an epic journey across the UK. The challenge traditionally starts at Land’s End, Cornwall’s westernmost point. From there, he will cycle 900 miles to John O’Groats where the challenge ends. Between Land’s End and John O’Groats, he will pass over the epic cliffs of Devon, through the impressive Lake District countryside, and up into the Scottish Highlands.

On taking on the challenge Craig said: "I wanted to do something for my 60th birthday this year and knowing people who work for The Kirkwood, I wanted to raise funds for the charity.

"I have done some training in Majorca which was very good and something I enjoyed. I did 600 miles over two weeks there.

"I know it's going to be a tough challenge, you have to do 72 miles a day over two weeks to complete it. Whilst doing 72 miles isn't a lot, the hardest thing is doing it day after day."

Craig will be cycling the route between the 24th July and the 6th August.

The Kirkwood's complementary therapist, Angela Lloyd-Martin, is a good friend of Craig and she has wished him look for his challenge in the Summer.

She said: "I have known Craig for a number of years and consider him one of my closest friends. I was really pleased when he told me he wanted to be involved in fundraising for The Kirkwood, particularly as what he is intending to do is a personal challenge for him.

"I've been watching his fundraising progress and was absolutely delighted when he not only reached his target but went above it."

Craig was hoping to raise £1,000 for the charity but has already smashed his target, which he is understandably delighted about.

He added: "To get over my target already is fantastic. Whatever else is raised now is a bonus. I know through talking to Angela the difference in people's lives The Kirkwood makes and so I am only too happy to help raise funds for what is a fantastic charity."

If you'd like to support Craig's fundraising challenge you can donate via his JustGiving page at: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/craigs-lejog-2022