Starting Friday, our very own Martin Cowell is taking on an epic cycling challenge, all in aid of raising money for two wonderful charities here in the North East. We're spreading the word about his journey and hope you are able to support in any way. Here's a few words from Martin himself about his task ahead:
From 15 - 22 September, I will be cycling 900 miles passing through seven countries to help celebrate my 50th year and to raise vital funds for two of my favourite charities; True Colours Theatre and Greenfingers Charity.
Starting in my home town of Newcastle and ending at the International Garden Centre Association congress in Italy, my Tyne to Rhine trip will be an unsupported solo ride.
Mainly following the EuroVelo 15 – The Rhine Cycle Route is one of the most modern cycle paths in the world and combines Europe's diversity of landscapes. Over 900 miles (1440 km) it’ll take me through seven countries from the shipyards on the Tyne to the source of the Rhine in the Alpine village of Andermatt in Switzerland. From there, I’ll head on over the alps into Italy, ending at Lake Maggiore 8 days later.
It would be wheelie terrific if you could chip in and push me along with whatever you can afford. Every penny makes a difference. For whatever you can give, thank you very, very much.
Follow my journey on Instagram @TynetoRhine and share your support #TynetoRhine
My intention is to split your kind donations 50:50 across the two charities.
True Colours Theatre
True Colours Theatre is an inclusive theatre school for children and young people living in the North East of England.
Many of their members have additional needs such as Autism, ADHD, anxiety disorders and physical and life limiting conditions and various mental health issues.
My daughter currently accesses classes available through this charity, so it is very close to my heart. True Colours Theatre provides a caring, warm and welcoming environment, a place of acceptance and inclusion where members can grow in confidence without fear of judgement or stigma.
Greenfingers Charity
A wonderful charity, supported by the horticulture industry and familiar to me through work - Greenfingers is a national charity dedicated to creating magical, therapeutic gardens for life-limited children and their families and carers to improve their time spent in hospices across the UK.
Thank you for your support!
To follow his journey, updates will be posted to TynetoRhine Instagram. Any donations can be made by following to Just Giving.