A Northumberland College student has raised over £1,200 for NHS frontline staff after completing a gruelling 12-hour stationary bike ride.
Joel Dooley, who is studying Sport Science, wanted to raise money while at home during lockdown and decided to do charity bike ride in tribute of the healthcare workers and volunteers who are fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.
The 17-year-old, from Ashington, kicked off his mammoth challenge in his front garden with neighbours, passers by and delivery drivers offering donations and encouragement.
“I came up with the idea to raise money for the NHS and thought about what would be a challenge for me,” said Joel. “I decided that as front-line staff work 12-hour shifts, I needed to do something for 12 hours that could be based at home and a stationary bike became the obvious choice.
“From idea to the actual day was only two weeks and I trained as much as I could. The support of my neighbourhood on the day was phenomenal and even delivery drivers stopped to give me their tips.
“I trust the money will help people working in the NHS in Cramlington at this difficult time.”
The total amount raised of £1,248 will be given to Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust’s registered charity, Bright Northumbria, which supports hospital and community health facilities within Northumberland and North Tyneside.
Brenda Longstaff, Head of the Bright Charity, added: “We were incredibly impressed by the way Joel set himself this really tough challenge to support the NHS.
“We would like to congratulate him on completing it and offer our warmest thanks on behalf of staff at the Northumbria hospital. The funds raised are very much appreciated and will go towards supporting our staff at this challenging time.“
We are the largest further education provider in Northumberland with campuses throughout the county.
Our student transport scheme is available for eligible students to make getting to and from college as easy as possible.
Our extensive re-development programme will create outstanding new facilities.
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