Andy's 147 Mile Cycle in Aid Of Marie Curie

Andy Gray, UK Operations manager for Johnson Controls will be getting on his bike again in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care. This time he'll tackle the Coast to Coast route from Whitehaven to Newcastle.

The 147 mile route will take Andy from the industrial lands of West Cumbria, through the stunning scenery of the northern Lake District, passing through Keswick, Penrith and the Eden Valley before starting a climb up to Hartside and the Northern Pennines. He will then travel through old lead mining villages, such as Nenthead and Rookhope and on to the Durham Dales before entering Consett. Finally a straight forward cycle will take Andy through Britain’s old industrial heartlands before arriving in Sunderland.

This year Andy will be cycling in memory of fellow cyclist Jill:
“I met Jill on the London to Paris ride in 2009. At the time I didn't know she had cancer... as she explained later she wanted to do the ride 'as an equal'. I still find it hard to believe and understand how she managed to do the ride with her condition... but she did it!

Jill's home town was Newcastle and we had planned to do this ride last year but unfortunately she was too ill. Sadly Jill lost her battle with cancer late last year at the age of 34. Jill also did her fundraising for Marie Curie and was an inspiration in the face of adversity. A brave lady indeed.”

Andy is aiming to raise £2000 and so far, is over half way there. However he does have a long way to go. Follow Andy’s progress and help him to reach his target by visiting his Just Giving page at: www.justgiving.com/Andy-Gray2011