Carlisle cyclist will tackle 180 miles in support of rescued horse riders


A MAN will cycle 180 miles to raise money for the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) in support of rescued horse riders today. Neil Foster, of Rockcliffe, Carlisle, will take part in a Coast to Coast from Walney Island in South Cumbria to Whitby in North Yorkshire over the next three days (July 30-Aug 1).

A MAN will cycle 180 miles to raise money for the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) in support of rescued horse riders today.

Neil Foster, of Rockcliffe, Carlisle, will take part in a Coast to Coast from Walney Island in South Cumbria to Whitby in North Yorkshire over the next three days (July 30-Aug 1). He will be joined by seven pals.

Stepdaughter, Molly Waugh, 19, was airlifted from Rockcliffe by GNAAS in July last year after being thrown off her horse. She fractured her vertebrae and was flown to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle. A year on, Molly has made a full recovery and continues to ride horses.

Neil, a former horse rider who now builds show jumps and courses for British Showjumping said: “They are a fantastic support to the equestrian world. You don’t realise the amazing work they do until you’ve had personal experience. I have seen the GNAAS helicopter airlift a handful of people for various accidents, so I felt like they were a worthy cause to raise funds for.”

Last year, GNAAS was called out to 52 horse related incidents.

Neil has already raised more than £400 and hopes further donations will add to his fundraising efforts.

Mandy Drake, head of fundraising at GNAAS said: “We want to wish Neil a great big good luck for his ride over the next three days, as well as saying thank you for his support. The funds raised will without a doubt go towards keeping our helicopters up in the air.”

To donate, visit: createanddonate.co.uk/to/neils-walney-island-to-whitby-180-mile-bike-ride

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