Two men begin challenge of cycling the perimeter of Devon

Two men from Devon have begun an extreme challenge of cycling the perimeter of Devon to raise money for the Royal Devon & Exeter NHS Foundation Trust's Starfish Appeal.

Jason Wright, from Cranbrook, Exeter, and Simon Whitby, from Newton Poppleford, decided to take on the challenge of a lifetime to give back to the Royal Devon & Exeter NHS Foundation Trust (RD&E), after they both had family members cared for by the Trust.

The pair are cycling non-stop for 48 hours around the 443 mile perimeter of Devon over challenging terrain and with an incline of 46,000ft - the equivalent of 9 miles up. The money raised will all go to the charity's Starfish Appeal to support children and young people at the RD&E.

"A family member of mine was born prematurely and has had quite a few visits and stays in the children's ward at the RD&E since they were born. For me, this was all the motivation I needed and I'm pleased to give something back - it gives me purpose and the reward of a smile is priceless.

"We're really grateful to everyone who has donated to and supported our challenge so far. In particular, we'd like to thank cycling clothing manufacturer, Milltag, who have supplied us with two full sets of specially designed cycling kit for the challenge, and 'The Udder Stuff', who are a local milk farm outlet who have agreed to donate 10p per bottle of milk sold during this week."

Jason Wright

"Like Jason, I've also had a member of my family who was born prematurely and over the years has undergone countless operations. I struggle to understand how someone so small can endure that much pain and suffering but still smile and laugh, so cycling my bike is nothing compared to what they have, and will likely face in their lifetime.

"Every penny helps and so we'd be really grateful for anything you're able to donate to support the children at the RD&E. Thank you."

Simon Whitby

"Jason and Simon are taking on an incredible challenge for the RD&E Charity and our Starfish Appeal - it really will make a huge difference to our patients and their families here at the RD&E."

Ian Roome - Head of Charity Fundraising for the RD&E Charity

The Starfish Appeal is raising money to enhance children's services and outpatient waiting areas at the RD&E through creating a dedicated space for children while they wait for their appointment. As well as providing a new engaging space, the Starfish Appeal will also fund activities, materials and equipment to support children through what is often an anxious time.

You can support Jason and Simon through their fundraiser.

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• devon
• royal devon & exeter nhs foundation trust
• starfish appeal