A TEACHER is swapping English literature for lycra to take on a cycling challenge ahead of the upcoming Tour de Yorkshire.
Craig Fletcher, who teaches the subject at Horizon Community College, will take part in the 120km pre-race sportive on May 6 in Leeds, before the professionals cycle the same route.
The 31-year-old, of Champany Fields, Dodworth, is using the event to raise money for Barnsley Hospice.
He said: “This will be the longest ride I’ve ever completed. Being from Barnsley, I see the fantastic work the hospice does within our community and I want to play my part in ensuring their priceless support and care can continue.”
Craig has been training for the sportive by cycling to and from work every day and taking on longer distances at weekends. He will be cheered on by his wife, Vicky, and children Rosa, three, and one-year-old Luca.
Bethan Gledhill, community fundraiser at Barnsley Hospice, added: “Craig’s been training really hard and we’re so grateful for the efforts he is going to in order to raise money for our patients.
“Our care couldn’t continue without people like him taking on personal challenges and doing their bit to support our services. We wish him, and all the other riders taking part in the sportive, the best of luck.”
The Tour de Yorkshire passes through Barnsley on May 4, before crossing other parts of the county over the weekend.
“To celebrate its arrival in the town, a stationary bike will be placed in the reception of the hospice in Gawber from April 30 up until race day, and staff are appealing for supporters and businesses to sign up to keep the pedals going between 10am and 3pm every day,” Bethan added.
To book your slot, call 323613, and to sponsor Craig visit justgiving.com.
