Issue 439 – Friends prepare for the ‘long neigh up’

CYCLISTS from Westbury are to undertake an epic journey from Land’s End to John O’Groats to raise money for a friend who has been stricken with cancer.

Ed Coleman and Julian Morris of the White Horse Riders expect the 874 mile route to take nine days when they undertake the arduous task next year.
The ride, nicknamed “The Long Neigh Up” in reference to Ewan McGregor’s famous ‘Long Way Up’ will be used as a vehicle to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support and Spinal Research.
Ed and Julian had been riding for many years with their friend Shaun Player and had often discussed their desire to take on a challenge such as Land’s End to John O’Groats. After Shaun was diagnosed with cancer in 2007, Ed and Julian were motivated to turn their dream into a reality and use the trip to benefit others.
Julian said, “Shaun can no longer join us on our regular Sunday jaunt across the plain or through the Longleat estate. He is currently battling the advanced stages of the disease and hopes that a drug trial will lead to a light at the end of the tunnel. Macmillan Cancer Support have been of support and comfort to Shaun and his family.
“Half the money we raise will go to Macmillan Cancer Support to help others affected by the illness. We live in the belief that Shaun will be peddling with us again one day. Macmillan Cancer Support exist to help improve the lives of people living with cancer and their families and carers. One in three of us will get cancer and we are all affected. 
“More recently, the tragedy of the Puttick family moved the nation.  Sam Puttick shared a class with a family member and will always be remembered by us for his cheeky little smile. The Puttick family will certainly always be remembered as a symbol of unity. The other half of the money will support Spinal Research who are the UK’s leading charity funding medical research around the world to develop reliable treatments for paralysis caused by a broken back or neck. Funding this research will provide hope to those in exactly the same position as Sam.”
The pair were keen to stress that the trip is completely self-funded; every penny pledged will go straight to Macmillan Cancer Support and Spinal Research.
Fundraising events are being planned throughout the year to help the pair reach their goal of £10,000 .
Donations can be made at www.justgiving.co.uk/longneighupspinalresearch or www.justgiving.co.uk/longneighupmacmillancancersupport
More information on ‘The Long Neigh Up’ can be found at www.longneighup.co.uk
Pictured: Julian Morris, Shaun Player and Ed Coleman.