MP Jason McCartney backs Town to Brighton bike ride

“WE’RE doing this for two very worthy causes.”

The words of Colne Valley MP Jason McCartney as he enjoyed one final training ride before lining up today for Town’s epic bike ride to Brighton.

Mr McCartney – who admits he has not been on a bike for 10 years until recently – was one of 180 intrepid cyclists who were lining up at the Galpharm Stadium today.

In front of them is a four-day bike ride to Brighton’s Withdean Stadium in time to see Lee Clark’s side take on the Division 1 champions in a crucial game on Saturday.

That is one reason to spur them on but, more importantly, they hope to raise more than £200,000, to be shared between the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and Town’s Academy.

Each of the riders was tasked to find at least £1,000 in sponsorship and many have done even better.

Mr McCartney admits the two causes are close to his heart.

He said: “I’ve been a Town fan for years and go to most of the games.

“But we saw only last week how vital the work of the Yorkshire Air Ambulance can be, when the crew flew in to try and help a badly-injured workman at Holmfirth.

“Sadly, he died, but the Air Ambulance is responsible for saving so many lives.