Westbury postman’s 24-hour cycle to Paris for Scope

Westbury postman, Allen Laker from Dilton Marsh, is putting his passion for cycling to the test by taking part in the ultimate endurance cycle challenge for charity. 

Allen has signed up to take part in the London to Paris 24 (L2P24), which is organised annually by the disability charity Scope. Competitors in this gruelling event cover just over 280 miles by bike from London to Paris in less than 24 hours.

Allen will set off from London on 5th July this year, and will pedal through the day and into the night in his attempt to reach the French capital the next day.

By taking part, Allen hopes to raise £1500 in aid of Scope, a charity which provides support, advice and information to more than a quarter of a million disabled people and their family members every year.

Of his part in the ride, Allen said, “Last year I took part in the inaugural Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100 Sportive over the 2012 Olympic Road Race course in aid of Scope and realized that I needed to do something more challenging. Scope were advertising L2P24 and within 48 hours I decided to take up the challenge.

“I have no personal connection with the charity or with disability except for making a monthly donation to a very good cause.

“Training for the event has been disrupted by a recent illness, however it is slowly getting back on track.  Before the illness I rode 146 miles from Dilton Marsh to Eastbourne mainly into a 19mph head wind and regularly ride at least three times a week of between 30 and 100 miles.  All being well training will intensify throughout the month of June.

“If you would like to sponsor me for my fundraising efforts please go online to: www.virginmoneygiving.com/AllenLaker.”

Debbie Bines, head of events for Scope said, “This is an extreme endurance cycle which pushes riders to their absolute limits and we’re thrilled that Allen has taken on this huge challenge in support of our charity.

“At Scope we’re all about changing society for the better, so that disabled people and their families can have the same opportunities as everyone else.

“The money being raised by Allen will go towards supporting people affected by disability to overcome their own challenges in life.  For example, just £8 means that a disabled person or family member in need of help can call the Scope Response helpline for free, expert, advice and support.”

Set your next goal with Scope and participate in the world’s most exciting endurance challenges: cycling through the night from London to Paris in 24 hours; running a 50k Ultra through London’s iconic landmarks; or taking on one of three ultimate Ironman tests across the UK. Log on to www.scope.org.uk/endurance to find out more.

You can sponsor Allen for his fundraising efforts by visiting www.virginmoneygiving.com/AllenLaker