Tim’s virtual ride inspired by late wife (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Tim’s virtual ride inspired by late wife

As Tim Ferguson slogs out the miles on a Land’s End to John O’Groats cycle challenge, he’ll be inspired by his late wife’s battle against cancer.

Tim Ferguson

Lyn died just over six months after being diagnosed with a brain tumour, leaving behind her daughter, Catrin, now four.

She was a PE teacher at South Craven School, in Cross Hills, and died, aged 37, on January 3, 2009, having been diagnosed the previous May.

Tim, 40, who lives in Silsden, said: “Lyn was given between six months and two years to live when she was told about the disease — she managed six months.

“She needed some palliative care in Manorlands at Oxenhope, which was wonderful, but she came home to die.”

This Saturday, at Fitness First, in Keighley, Tim, who runs the High Adventure Outdoor Education Centre, at Cowling, will be joining about 14 others to cycle around 850 miles — the equivalent of cycling the length of Britain.

Their goal will be to complete the distance and raise as much cash as possible through sponsorship for Manorlands.

“This is no easy feat as it means that we must maintain an average of 33kph all day long on the four bikes,” said Tim.

“We’ll be doing it in relay, getting on and off the bikes. Some of us will be able to pedal at that speed for an hour while others might be slower, but we must keep up that pace.” Among the bikers carrying out the challenge will be friend and work colleague David Maw, whose mum has been diagnosed with cancer.

“Manorlands do a wonderful job yet they have to meet so much of the running costs from fundraising like this,” Tim added.

“Having to deal with cancer is horrible so we’re doing what we can do to help Manorlands raise that money.

“I want to thank Fitness First who are giving their services for free.”

Anyone wishing to back Tim and his friends should phone 01535 630044 or email info@highadventureoec.co.uk.