Getting passengers to their destinations is all in a day’s work for ScotRail train driver John Patrick.
So when he agreed to take part in a charity cycle for Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research, he didn’t think twice about having his son on board for the ride.
Forty-year-old John from Baillieston, Glasgow, took part in the recent Scottish Bikeathon at Ardvonie Park near Kingussie – cycling to Laggan, Glen Truim, Newtonmore and back to the start line, with two-year-old Callum strapped happily in his child seat.
John was first encouraged to tackle the event by relatives in Kingussie in 2004 – and has taken part every year since.
This year he completed the course in two hours and forty minutes –slightly longer than previous years when cycling solo.
John, of Queensby Drive, was also joined by his wife, mother-in-law and father-in-law to raise money for the blood cancer charity.
He said: “The Bikeathon is a great way to raise money for Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research. It was more of a challenge this year having Callum along for the ride but he seemed to really enjoy it.”
“I’ve raised £350 this year and around £2,300 over the years so am really grateful to everyone who has sponsored me.”
Shirley Neild, chairperson of the Badenoch and Strathspey branch of Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research, was delighted with John’s fundraising efforts.
She said: “The Bikeathon is just one of the events we organise to raise money for our research into treatments and hopefully one day a cure for leukaemia and other blood cancers.
“We are so grateful that John and his family take part every year. Their efforts – and the funds they raise – are much appreciated.”
