90-year-old from Beccles cycling over 1,100 miles to raise money for homeless
Peter Langfield's journey will take him from the most southerly point to the most northerly point of the UK
Last updated 21st Aug 2023
Turning 90 years old and cycling 1100 miles to raise money for the homeless. That is how Retired Vicar Peter Langford, from Beccles in Suffolk, decided to celebrate reaching his 9nth decade.
He will be cycling from Cornwall’s Land’s End to Scotland’s John O’Groats place from the 22nd of August to the 21st of September 2023.
This is not the first time Peter has taken on such a large challenge.
Previously completing the journey at 75, 80 and 85 years old -raising nearly £60,000 in total.
However his 4th go is the most ambitious as he has arthritic knees and hopes to raise £50,000 this time.
"It's a well tried thing and will almost certainly be the last - although I said that when I was 85."
"I am much slower than I was, and I am not looking forward to the hills of Devon and Cornwall which incidentally is by far the hardest part.... but I've got much more help this time than 5 years ago I did it entirely alone. I've got family members supporting me and carrying the heavy stuff."
The proceeds will be split and donated between Suffolk-based charity Access Community Trust, which provides shelter and personalised support to over 300 individuals and families every night and the Salvation Army.
"I pray for the homeless every day"
Peter told us he has "always been concerned about the homeless ever since " he "was a student."
He told us that when he was younger, those on the street would ask for a cup of tea, at which point Peter would invite them to go with him to a local cafe.
He also explained that if he is going somewhere he knows he will see some homeless people he will bring apples and Mars Bars "not because they're worth anything but because it gives you a reason for stopping and saying hello...I try never to walk past people."
Through talking to them Peter has realised there are many reasons as to why someone may become homeless. "sometimes it's alcohol and drugs, but it isn't always and people can quite innocently be in that situation."
The charities
We asked Peter why he chose to donate the money to The Salvation Army and Access Community Trust.
He told us that he appreciates the work they do for those in difficult positions on the street and that these charities can help people gain a second chance.
"If the person is willing to be helped then they have a really good chance of getting out of all that and eventually getting onto an even keel and finding somewhere to live and the rest of it. That's why I am supporting them."
Donations to Peter can be given on his Just Giving Page here.