Cyclist ‘funds a mission’ by cycling from Kent to Cornwall

A cyclist has raised £5,000 for Cornwall Air Ambulance, which is enough to fund a lifesaving mission by air, by cycling from Kent to Cornwall.

David Glover and a group of friends took on the challenge across five days in August, completing an impressive 340 miles and finishing in Padstow.

Having started their training in the spring to build their fitness, the group averaged 70 miles a day even during some wet and windy weather. On one occasion they even found themselves sheltering under a tree with a local postman.

David said: “Not only is it great to be able to raise money for charity but it’s fun as well, especially if you get a group together, and it’s a lovely way to see the countryside, discover new places, and come across villages you’ve never heard of. It’s very motivating and keeps you going if you know you’re doing something for charity like this, there’s no way that you’re not going to complete it or let those down who’ve made a donation.”

David and his wife had previously attended a Cornwall Air Ambulance fundraising event in London, as part of the New Heli Appeal to bring the first AW169 helicopter to Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. David decided it would be a great charity to raise money for during his cycle challenge as part of the Heli2 appeal.

He added: “Clearly in a county like Cornwall, where there are a lot of remote areas to get to, that’s where the helicopter is so important, it can get to these places so much quicker. I’m very happy to have contributed to raising money for a second helicopter.”

Fundraising Officer Sherelle Puertas said: “The community supports us in so many ways and we love it when they get creative with different ideas. David took his hobby and used it to help raise an incredible amount of money towards securing a second helicopter for the people of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. There is still plenty of time to play your part, get involved and help us to save even more lives. We hope you’ll join the Heli2 mission!”

You can support the Heli2 Appeal here: https://cornwallairambulancetrust.org/heli2-appeal/