A CYCLIST has pedalled from Hull to Hanover to raise money for the Primrose Hospice which has helped his two sisters after they were diagnosed with breast cancer.
Stephen Thomas and his son Jake, cycled 352 miles over five days from the Yorkshire seaport to Hanover Town Hall in aid of the caring hospice.
The ride raised more than £1,660 for the Primrose which cared for Stephen’s two sisters, Carol and Mandy, after they were diagnosed with breast cancer.
Both are now in remission and were cheering their younger brother and nephew on from their Redditch homes while receiving constant updates from the pair.
The majority of the ride went smoothly, however, day four did test the pair with constant head winds and heavy rain as they crossed the north German plain.
“It was tiring each day and my left knee was hurting, I just kept thinking about my sisters and how it was a walk in the park compared to what they had both been through,” said Stephen, who moved from his home town to live in Yorkshire.
“That spurred me on and gave me the boost I needed.
“They both received amazing care from Primrose as do so many others.
“I wanted to show my appreciation and raise as much money as I could by doing this ride.”
Stephen, whose family originates from Batchley, said he was really pleased to complete the ride with his son Jake.
“Arriving at Hanover Town Hall, I was greeted by cheering friends and family with banners, but more importantly cold beer.
“It felt like a great achievement to have completed the ride.”
Emma Williams, fundraising manager at Primrose Hospice, said the money Stephen raised would help the hospice offer free care and support to more people in Redditch and Bromsgrove.
“Stephen and Jake have raised an incredible amount of money during what must have been a really gruelling challenge.
“Their efforts will ensure other people can access our services for free which includes day hospice, complementary therapies, clinic sessions, family support and more.”
Primrose Hospice must raise £1.75million annually to keep its services free for people with life-limiting conditions and their families living in north east Worcestershire.
