A Northampton Chaplain has been braving unsettled weather and saddle sores in a bid to raise money for a charity which supports “anyone in need”.

The Reverend Philip Evans, who is the Lead Chaplain at St Andrew’s Healthcare in Northampton, has already embarked upon an epic cycle challenge on behalf of the Christian organisation Hope Now.

On Saturday, August 27, Philip kick started his 1,2000 mile journey from Land's End and plans to end up in John O' Groats in September, just before his 67^th birthday. Just a few days in and he has already raised more than £300. 

Philip said: “Hope Now is a small charity, with minimal overheads.  It has been working in Ukraine for 30 years, on the ground, and was recommended to me by a trusted friend who is a medical doctor who has worked with and supported Hope Now for many years.

“The charity has a Christian ethos and serves anyone in need - offering medical aid, relief for orphans and refugees, and much else.

“I haven’t been training hard, so I’m taking it in small stages, but I am sure this is going to be a physically and mentally challenging journey. Nevertheless, I am looking forward to it, and when the going gets tough, I will just recall Albert Einstein’s quote where he once said: ‘Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving’.”

Philip is hoping to raise £1,200. To sponsor him, click here.