26-04-2025
Support for man cycling length of country and hiking up three mountains
A MAN who is cycling the length of the UK while also tackling the Three Peaks Challenge along the way has been overwhelmed with support.
Paul Whitehead, 54, from Weymouth is cycling from Lands End to John O'Groats, which he hopes to complete in a gruelling 15 days to raise awareness for Motor Neurone Disease.
The avid cyclist said he is roughly a third of the way into his landmark journey, which as well as cycling over 800 miles, includes hiking up the three tallest peaks in the UK - Snowdon in Wales, Scafell Pike in Cumbria and Ben Nevis in Scotland.
While cycling through Lach Dennis near Northwich in Cheshire on day five of his ride yesterday, Paul said: 'It's been a challenge. When you have a destination to get to and you see the fundraising. It's been incredible.'
As previously reported, Paul decided to undertake the great cross country challenge after his friend and fellow cyclist was diagnosed with MND last July.
After a harrowing drive back from Oxfordshire after seeing his newly diagnosed friend, below, Paul was spurred into action.
(Image: Paul Whitehead) Paul said of his friend: 'He's been supporting me all the way. It's been so positive, and I've been on the edge of tears from the generosity of people.'
Paul hoped to reach at least £7,777, to commemorate national rugby player Rob Burrow who tragically died from MND in June last year. He played as number seven for Leeds Rhinos.
(Image: Paul Whitehead)
Paul hit his target after a random donation of £27 helped him to reach the goal, coincidentally on his birthday on April 23.
He said: 'It was written in the stars. You really couldn't have made it up. What a great birthday surprise.'
Since setting off on April 22, Paul has received well wishes from Ferne Cotton via Instagram and from Gloucester Rugby player Lewis Ludlow.
Sherborne Antiques Market has also organised fundraisers and a window display supporting Paul along his journey.
Many campsites he and his partner Gwen have stayed in along the way have also let him stay free of charge, with the money saved going right back into the fundraising pot.
(Image: Paul Whitehead) Paul said: 'It's a constant battle to get yourself ready every day. Between me and Gwen it's been full on. It's been amazing. We're definitely a team.'
While the dedicated friend and cyclist has nearly reached £10,000 on GoFundMe, he hopes to surpass the staggering amount as he completes his journey. He hopes to reach John O'Groats by May 7.
Paul is currently 385 miles into his challenge, and there is still plenty of time to donate to the incredible cause.
Donations can be made through Paul's GoFundMe page here and he will be posting regular updates on the journey through his Instagram page, also found on his GoFundMe.
