Three youth workers from Lancashire Youth Challenge will cycle more than 1,000 miles from Land's End to John O'Groats this August to honor the memory of 14-year-old Ryan, a former participant who died last year. The two-week journey will raise funds for life-changing youth expeditions.
A Promise Made
Ed Maxwell, one of the cyclists, knew Ryan throughout his life and acted as a mentor and surrogate uncle. The idea for the challenge came from Ryan himself during a family conversation. While staying with Ed during the birth of his youngest sister, Ryan asked if they could cycle the length of the country together when he grew older.
Ed Maxwell, youth worker, said: "The idea for this challenge came from Ryan himself. He was staying with me while his youngest sister was being born, and we were chatting about all the adventures myself and some of his family had enjoyed during their time with LYC. Sadly this is no longer going to be possible for Ryan, so we are going to do it for him, to keep his memory alive, to do something he’d be proud of and to raise vital funds to enable LYC to continue to change the lives of so many young people in the future."
Fundraising and Support
The fundraising campaign has already received a major financial boost from a care organisation in Blackpool, where two of the cyclists are employed. The workplace provided vital emotional and financial support following Ryan's death.
The money raised will directly fund a multi-day youth expedition for local teenagers, helping young people overcome adversity and build resilience through outdoor adventures and creative learning.
How to Support
To follow the team's journey or make a donation, visit the JustGiving campaign page. For more information on the charity's work, visit their Facebook page.
