Slinfold man set for cycle challenge following family’s cancer battle

Chris Holmes, from Lowfield Road, will cycle 100 miles in the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100 for the Mulberry Centre which provides free practical and emotional support to people diagnosed with cancer.

The 52-year-old explained: “The furthest I have ever cycled is 20 miles so this will be a real Olympian challenge for me.

“However, it is nothing compared to the challenge of cancer that my youngest daughter, wife and mother-in-law have all had to face in the last few years.”

The computer engineer, who is also an active member of St John’s Church in Broadbridge Heath, is hoping to raise £1,000 for the charity.

He said: “Even though my family didn’t use the Mulberry Centre, as we live in Sussex, I work near the centre and I know that it makes a big difference as a small charity.

“I know that cancer has a real impact on family lives and knowing that there is a place that families can go to, to help them understand what the future holds is really reassuring.”

The father-of-two described himself as ‘not great in any sports’ but is looking ahead to tackling the route made famous by the world’s cyclists at the London 2012 Olympics.

“It’s been very low level training which I will have to step up as of the weekend and start doing some 50 mile rides,” added Chris.

“I sustained an injury when I went off road and came off the bike so it was scratched wrists and a few bruises. I am confident, but it is going to be a challenge.”

Emma Cartwright, centre director at The Mulberry Centre, said: “We are really excited about Chris taking part in the cycling challenge for The Mulberry Centre. We have over 1,000 people registered to use our services and as a local charity, fundraising efforts like this make a huge difference to the work we do.”

To donate visit www.justgiving.com/Chris-PV-Holmes

Are you or someone you know taking part in the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100? Let us know in the comments below.