Cross Country for Crossroads: The Hadrian’s Wall Challenge 18/06/2012

Hadrian’s Wall provides an iconic pathway for walkers and cyclists to travel coast to coast, and it’s a challenge taken up by Crossroads Young Carers, with a little friendly competition from Bike Club.

Staff and young carers from Crossroads Care Gateshead will walk the 84 mile trail from Bowness-on-Solway to Wallsend during Carers Week, to highlight the difficulties faced by young carers, and to raise much needed funds. But the action really gets going on the 23rd June, when Bike Club Development officer Patrick Carr saddles a tandem with CTC member David Ryan for a race to the finish.

The walkers, with their five-day head start, will have reached Heddon-on-the-Wall, a mere 15 miles from the finish at Segedunum Roman Fort in Wallsend. The cyclists will start from Bowness-on-Solway and aim to cover 100 miles of the Hadrian’s Cycleway before the walkers arrive in Wallsend.

Bike Club Development Officer Patrick Carr says,

“This challenge streches the limits of both us on the tandem and the walkers, many of whom have caring responsibilities at home. We hope to provide a little bit of extra motivation for tired legs on the last day. And of course, we hope to win!”

Bike Club Officer Patrick Carr with Crossroads staff

Crossroads Young Carers offer cycling to young people who don’t usually get the chance to ride. Young people report increased confidence and independence after bike sessions. Learning to ride for the first time is a big part of what Crossroads is able to offer, thanks to Bike Club funding and support.

To follow the walkers’ progress during the week check Young Carers News on OurGateshead.org . Tandem stoker Patrick will be tweeting from the bike as @bikeclub 

If you’d like to donate text GCYC12 followed by £2 £5 or £10 to 70070