Vice Master Daniel Koch and Bedford School Association Director Hugh Maltby spent some of their Easter holidays braving artic conditions while cycling the breadth of the UK – all in a bid to raise some much-needed funds for two very worthy causes.
Mr Koch took on the challenge to raise funds for the British Red Cross’ Ukraine Appeal, providing food, water, bedding and medical attention to refugees in camps in countries bordering Ukraine. For Mr Maltby, this was a small part of a bigger challenge. He is cycling 10,000 miles this year in support the Country Days charity.
The route, which started in Lowestoft, the most easterly point in the UK, took them through a picturesque and varied terrain right to the most westerly point in Aberystwyth, Wales.
The two covered the 325 miles in just three days, ably supported by Hugh’s wife, Rachel. Despite the misty, dank weather conditions, they made good progress from Lowestoft, even having time for a quick paddle in the sea before they set off. On arrival at the Welsh border, they were confronted by a strong headwind, sleet, snow and nearly 8,000 feet of climbing before they descended through picturesque valleys into Aberystwyth. Both described the last day’s conditions as ‘character building’!
Mr Maltby explained, “The challenge to ride across England and Wales and see parts of the country I’d never seen before while also raising money was too tempting to refuse. Support from so many friendly strangers along the way and copious amounts of cake helped make the cycle easier. I’ll never forget cycling through the beautiful Welsh mountains – not a soul in sight – and then the feeling of elation when we arrived in Aberystwyth.”
However, the thought of a paddle in the Irish Sea was soon dismissed when they arrived cold, tired and hungry at their destination. Luckily, this was soon replaced with a great sense of achievement and the knowledge they had raised much needed funds for two very worthy causes.
If you would like to support the charities, please donate via the links above.