Councillor Daniel Meredith and friends cycle 570 across France for Hosanna House Children’s Pilgrimage Trust

Mike Healey, Councillor Daniel Meredith and Paul O’Neill during their epic cycle ride in France

Councillor Daniel Meredith has cycled a gruelling 570 miles from Versailles to Lourdes for the HCPT (Hosanna House Children’s Pilgrimage Trust) Cycle to Lourdes between 8 and 14 April.

He was accompanied by two good friends from Middleton, Mike Healey, an IT manager, and nurse Paul O’Neill. Together, they made up a team of 32 people from across the UK who undertook the challenge: on an average day, they cycled 80 miles.

Councillor Meredith said: “I decided to become involved with the charity after hearing from my friend Paul, about the amazing work they complete.

“It was extremely hard, especially on the fourth day with a grueling 10-hour bike ride completing 113 miles.

“Whoever said France was flat lied to me because on the third day as a team, we were cycling up the inclines to reach the 3,300ft summit. I had to keep the thought of all the children I was helping to continue, as there were moments of ‘giving up’. I am glad to say I didn’t give up and completed the challenge. It will take me a couple of weeks to recuperate.”

The Balderstone and Kirkholt councillor has raised £1,056.76 towards his £2,000 target at the time of publication.

HCPT (Hosanna House Children’s Pilgrimage Trust) is a charity that operates in the Rochdale/Greater Manchester area and internationally providing pilgrimage to Lourdes for children who are under-privileged, disabled, unwell or dying.

Volunteers travel to Lourdes with children and care for them. Whilst the children are in Lourdes they are involved with in many different activities and fun days out; meeting children from every background across the UK.

To donate, visit:

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Daniel-loses-his-stabilisers

If you require any information about travelling to Lourdes with HCPT, contact:

group44@hcpt.org.uk