A CYCLIST is taking on the Land’s End to John O’Groats route to raise money for Furness General Hospital.

Business man and former shipyard worker Darryl Dixon is taking on the 1000 mile challenge over six days in aid of the Bay Hospitals Charity.

The challenge will require him to ride 167 miles a day, and he will be joined by Neil Purcell, who will drive Darryl’s support vehicle and ensure he stays well-fed and hydrated throughout the route.

Numerous sponsors have already gravitated to his cause, including ICR Integrity Ltd - a leading integrated provider of maintenance, repair and production solutions for industrial related services to the offshore oil and gas, power, chemical, nuclear and defence industries worldwide - where Darryl works as Director.

The challenge was originally aimed to raise £5000, but donations have already reached £4,432 before he has even set off.

FUNDRAISER: Darryl Dixon pictured in March during an earlier 160 mile a day challenge for the NHS

FUNDRAISER: Darryl Dixon pictured in March during an earlier 160 mile a day challenge for the NHS

Darryl said: “I’m hoping to raise as much money as we can for Furness General Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit and associated wards.

“This is to support our local NHS workers who continue to work so selflessly before and throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. I can’t think of a more fitting organisation at this time.

“I would like to say a big thank you to everyone who has donated to the cause so far, and to ICR Integrity who have provided lots of support and assistance in preparation for the ride.

“Anyone who wants to join me for a few miles anywhere along the route will be very welcome."

University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust Non-Executive Director Adrian Leather said: “As a cyclist myself, I know that Darryl is taking on a challenge that will test him both physically and mentally, but I know that he will feel a huge sense of satisfaction when he arrives at John O’Groats.

“Darryl is taking on an incredible challenge and has raised a huge amount of money for the charity before he has even set off."

To sponsor Darryl’s epic fund-raising ride, which starts on Sunday May 24, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/nhs-lejog2021.