Making vision a reality

Postman Jim Russell from Buckingham Delivery Office is asking colleagues to join Retina UK for their charity cycle challenge in October.

Jim’s wife, Jane, who works for Retina UK - the only UK charity dedicated solely to working for people affected by inherited sight loss – said: ‘We receive the Courier regularly and I’ve seen how many posties there are at Royal Mail who are also keen cyclists. Retina UK are running a Tandem Cycle Challenge in October this year and we’re looking for people to take part.’

From 11-13 October 2019, you could join #TeamRetinaUK on a challenge like no other - cycling for 100 miles over two days along Hadrian’s Cycleway on a tandem bicycle, and raising vital funds for Retina UK.

On 11 October participants will arrive in Tynemouth to meet their fellow team members and check into the first night’s accommodation. The following morning, they and their bike will be transported to the start line in Bowness-on-Solway.

‘There are 44 miles to cycle on day one, following miles of beautiful coastline, and passing castles, forts, turrets and abbeys,’ said Jane. ‘That evening you will stay the night in the lovely town of Haltwhistle, and you will have the chance to participate in a Q&A with Paralympic gold medal winning tandem cyclist, Steve Bate MBE, who is also taking part.

‘On the final day you’ll cycle 56 miles following the River Tyne right to the end of Hadrian’s Wall at the fort of Segedunum, then on to the North Sea where you’ll reach your destination at Tynemouth Priory. We’ll be there to congratulate you and hand out your very well-deserved medals! If you don’t have a partner, don’t worry! You can either cycle solo on a regular bike, or Retina UK can partner you up with someone.’

Deborah Laing, senior fundraising manager at Retina UK, said: ‘I decided to take part in the Retina UK Tandem Cycle Challenge for two reasons: I thought it would be an amazing experience, and because every day I see the difference the charity makes for people living with an inherited sight loss condition.

‘This will be a huge personal challenge for me as I don’t cycle regularly and have never been on a tandem before, but I know that the money I raise through taking part will be used to help us move closer to finding treatments for these conditions, and will also help to support those who are affected.’

Click here for further information and/or to book your place.