I am 67 and biking 400 miles from Fleetwood to Redcar and back to buy a beach wheelchair in friend's memory

A 67-year-old is preparing for an epic bike ride to fulfill a promise to a dear friend who lost her life to cancer.

Gillian Sheath will set off from Fleetwood to Redcar on the east coast and back again to raise money for a beach wheelchair to be used in Fleetwood.

The retired occupational therapist is no stranger to cycling - it’s something she has done almost every day since 8-years-old.

And on top of that, she has already undertaken several mammouth cycling charity rides to raise money for varying causes.

But this one is for Lisa, her friend who would come to Fleetwood to dip her toes into the sea - something she wouldn’t have done withput the Beach wheelchairs.

Gillian said: “Lisa couldn’t walk very well when she had cancer but with the wheelchair she could be pushed right up the edge of the sea. She loved it.

“Before she died, I asked her if I could raise money to buy one of the wheelchairs - she knew I was going to do it.

Wheelchairs cannot go on sand, they need bigger wheels. Fleetwood Beach Wheelchairs provides a free loan to any one who wants to access the sand and sea, who otherwise would not be able to.

Gillian’s cycle ride starts from Fleetwood Beach Wheelchairs on June 2 at 2pm and she will cycle, via Lancaster, Hawes and Wetherby to Redcar on June 5. She will then cycle back again.

Gillian has already completed some epic advientures - Lake District, Coast to Coast, Lands End, Beachy Head - all for amazing charities.

“I was really little when I got my first bike and I have always cycled, every day. It has given me strong legs! I have a good, sturdy trek bike that has taken me all over.

“I enjoy cycling so much, it’s the views and the freedom.”

The beach wheelchairs cost around £4,500 and Gillian would love to smash that target. For now, she is aiming for at least £3k.

To sponsor her, click on her Just Giving page