WITH three bike rides down and four to go, charity cyclist Michael Peak and his supporters have already raised £3,000.
The Post has been following the story of Michael, who has multiple health problems and can no longer take part in the strenuous 50-mile Great Notts Bike Ride each year.
So this year he has broken the distance down into seven, seven-mile routes.
Michael, who has Parkinson's and has undergone surgery for skin cancer and spinal problems, is donating the proceeds to the burns unit at Nottingham City Hospital, the Maggie's cancer support centre, the Southwell Live at Home Scheme and Over the Rainbow Parkinson's support group.
The 64-year-old retired police inspector, from Southwell, said: "I'm managing the distance OK, but it takes a lot out of me and I need to rest up the next day."
But his spirits have been lifted by the amount of support the venture has attracted.
Southwell and District Lions Club has made a donation, while leisure centre staff, squash players and neighbours have got on their bikes to join him for the 7x7 Charity Bike Ride.
The rides have proved so much fun that Jane Best and her twin sons Will and Jack, from Southwell, and John Daynes, from Ravenshead, are now regular participants.
Eleven-year-old Millie Harris, the daughter of Lisa White who runs the Hearty Goodfellow pub, in Southwell, with husband Will, is using her artistic talents to boost the appeal. One customer has bid £50 for her painting – and has told her she can keep the money if he is outbid.
All the rides so far have been in Southwell, but switch to Nottingham next month.
Two rides, from the Ferry Inn, Wilford, to Holme Pierrepont and back, are planned for July 21 and 28.
Michael's wife Sandra has finished all three rides despite being a learner cyclist at the age of 65. "I'm quite pleased with myself," she said.
The final ride will be in Southwell on August 4 when Michael, who used to be based at Radford Road police station, hopes to be joined by serving and retired officers.
The £15 entry fee includes a bacon butty and a pint. For more information contact 01636 812399 or email 7x7charitybikeride@gmail.com.
