A cycling buff will take on the hills of the Holme Valley to raise awareness of a life-limiting illness.
Will Boyes, 40, from Almondbury is helping to beat cystic fibrosis by taking part in the 65 Roses Holme Moss Classic on Sunday.
Will, who suffers from the genetic lung condition himself, is not new to cycling challenges having already completed the Lands End to John O’Groats route in 2013 and 215 miles in one day challenge “The Gump”.
Will said: “It is a big achievement to get this fundraiser off the ground. It’s running for the second year and we hope it’ll grow each year.
“For anyone who would like to take part but is just starting out cycling, or feels it would be too difficult, there is a shorter event which is 46 miles long. “No matter what distance it’s a lot of fun and all for a great cause so I really encourage people to join me and get pedalling.”
Pat Kilpatrick, the Cystic Fibrosis Trust’s fundraising manager for the North East and Yorkshire, added: “This event gives everyone a chance to see if they can follow in the tyre tracks of the world’s best cyclists.
“Money raised will enable the Cystic Fibrosis Trust to invest in cutting edge research to develop better treatments and eventually find a cure.
“It will also provide support to those with cystic fibrosis and their families and help the Trust to drive up standards in medical care.”
Only half of those with cystic fibrosis live to celebrate their 40th birthday.
It causes the lungs to become clogged with thick, sticky mucus, resulting in chronic infections and inflammation.
People with cystic fibrosis often look perfectly healthy but it’s a lifelong challenge which involves a vast daily intake of drugs, time-consuming physiotherapy and isolation from others with the condition.
If you would like to sponsor Will please visit: www.justgiving.com/TeamCysticFibrosis2014
If you would like to take part in the event there are still places available. You can register at www.65roses-holmemossclassic.co.uk or on the day.
