Trust staff member Olly Parkinson is embarking on a 1,200-mile challenge, walking, cross-training, and cycling the distance of Lands’ End to John O’Groats within four months to raise money for charity.
The challenge, spanning from March to June, will act as a fundraiser where 50% of the proceeds will go to the Trust’s wellbeing department and 50% to Cancer Research UK.
Talking about his reason for taking on the challenge, Olly said: “I chose these two charities because I’m very passionate about the wellbeing department at the Trust, seeing first-hand the difference the programmes make to those that attend. I think everybody does a great job.
“I think that a little bit of extra funding would go a long way for the programmes we deliver.
“I think cancer affects everybody’s lives; it’s affected mine in more cases than one. It’s a great cause and very personal to a lot of staff who work for the Trust.
“It’s something I’ve always wanted to do (Lands’ End to John O’Groats), but with work, it’s challenging just to take four months out, so I feel this is the next best thing.
“It’s to challenge myself but it’s also for a good cause. The goal is to do it for the charities. I will be doing nine miles every day for four months.
On the impact of the fundraiser, Olly added: “To the wellbeing department, hopefully, we can put a little bit of funding into certain groups and maybe take people on trips.
“Again, Cancer Research UK speaks for itself. Hopefully, they can use some of the money that will help aid their research.
“My biggest motivator is who I’m doing it for. Thinking about the participants that come to the Trust.
“Then obviously all the families and people that are affected by cancer.”
To donate, please visit the gofundme page: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/ollys-challenge
Alternatively, please email Olly at oliverparkinson@spireitestrust.org.uk
