The chairman of a Wellingborough glazing company has cycled from John O Groats to Lands End in an “emotionally and physically tough” challenge to raise thousands of pounds to help people with mental illness in memory of his daughter.
Together with family and friends, John Hewitt, Chairman of Glazerite UK Group Ltd, has raised more than £100,000 after completing the 1,000 mile challenge in 13 days in memory of his much-loved daughter Kelly.
The team of 12 cyclists battled wind and rain to raise awareness of mental illness during a turbulent two week journey in August.
John Said: “We are delighted to have raised more than £100,000 and want to thank everybody who made a donation. We have been overwhelmed by the kindness of strangers, who would come up to us on route and handover cash, toot their car horns in support and come out onto the street and clap. To experience this was incredible.
“The weather made it hard and it was emotionally and mentally tough but cycling is now part of my life and it personally helps lighten the load. My mind can be cluttered up with thoughts and a quick half an hour ride can really help to clear your mind and boost your mood.”
Planning is now taking place for future fundraising challenges and after making an initial donation to mental health charity MIND, to fund a specific project, John has plans to expand the work of Kelly’s Heroes.
He added: “Plans are in the pipeline for some exciting projects to support those with mental health needs and there are a number of projects we are looking to fund ourselves.”
Anyone wishing to congratulate John and the team can make a donation via Virgin Money Giving, click here.