Music festival to boost retired Scots police officer's 2,500-mile charity cycle to Africa in memory of schoolgirl
A quaint music festival is set to take place in Bridge of Allan this weekend to celebrate the return of a retired anti-terrorism detective who completed a gruelling 2,500-mile charity cycle ride from Stirling Castle to Morocco in honour of a tragic Stirling schoolgirl.
The event is scheduled for Saturday, with all proceeds being added to the funds already raised for the Eilidh Brown Respite Home, located in Thornhill.
Johnny Dreczkowski, a former Detective Inspector who served as the Head of Counter Terrorism and Covert Specialist Training, reached his destination in Marrakesh last week after navigating some of Europe and Africa's most demanding landscapes.
Johnny embarked on this monumental journey to raise vital funds for the respite home established in memory of the teenager.
Departing from the historic Stirling Castle at the start of May, Johnny undertook a solo and unsupported cycle through seven countries, across two continents, spanning three different time zones – all within a mere 34 days, raising an impressive £30,000.
However, he's not stopping there - he hopes to generate additional funds through Saturday's event.
Johnny, from Bridge of Allan, has embarked on several marathon endeavours to fundraise for the home.
The respite centre, situated amid the serene Stirlingshire countryside, means a great deal to Johnny as his wife, Ally Croll, who was the architect who worked closely with Eilidh's loved ones to make the respite home a reality.
Eilidh sadly lost her battle with a rare germ cell cancer on March 25, 2010, just nine days shy of her 16th birthday.
In her valiant fight against this illness, Eilidh and her family, who are from St Ninians, cherished their time together at Calum's Cabin, a respite retreat on the Isle of Bute.
One of Eilidh's final wishes was to see a sanctuary built nearer to home, offering a peaceful escape for families faced with the harrowing reality of childhood cancer.
Thanks to over a decade of fundraising and commitment from her family, the long-awaited respite home became a beacon of hope in 2023, offering much-needed support to families in their time of need.
However, maintaining the home's operations requires at least £50,000 per year. Johnny is optimistic that his solo cycling challenge will not only boost awareness but also make a substantial contribution towards meeting this financial target.
Johnny previosuly told how he felt inspired to support the cause because the centre "provides much-needed support and a safe haven for families dealing with the unimaginable".
He said: "They offer a space of comfort and care, and I want to help ensure that with annual costs of around £50,000, they can continue their unbelievable work.
"But I can't do it alone – I need your help! By sponsoring my ride, you'll be directly supporting the Eilidh Brown Respite Home and the incredible families they assist.
"Every mile I ride will be powered by your generosity and our belief in this cause.
"Your kindness and teamwork built this, let's keep it going, help me please."
Upon Johnny crossing the finish line earlier this month, Eilidh's father, Gordon remarked: "Johnny has been an amazing, constant support since the very start. It astounds us as a family the lengths he goes too support us - he is a machine and we are so very proud of him and full of love."
The 'Rock to Morocco Music Festival' aims to celebrate Johnny's dedication while also raising additional funds.
Happening at The Meadowpark Kitchen and Bar on Saturday, June 14, tickets for a night of music and community spirit can be purchased on Eventbrite for £20.
Deeply linked with the efforts of the respite home, Johnny isn't new to large-scale fundraising efforts. In May 2021, he embarked on a bike ride stretching 875-miles - from Land's End to John O'Groats - for the Eilidh Brown Memorial Fund.
His impressive record doesn't stop there, he has also conquered the West Highland Way, the demanding North Coast 500, took on the Three Peaks Challenge, persevered through the Cateran Yomp 24-hour Challenge, and completed the London Marathon.
In May 2023, he undertook a solo cycling expedition covering 1,400-miles, from Stirling Castle to the Colosseum in Rome, with the aim of raising funds for a respite home.
Just last year, he impressively cycled around the entirety of the UK and Ireland in a mere seven days.
Over the years, his relentless efforts have helped raise more than £100,000 for charity, thanks to the steadfast support of friends, family, and the local community.
To contribute towards Johnny's 'Rock to Morocco', click here.
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