Thatcham father and son duo complete Lands End to John O’Groats cycle challenge for Time to Talk

A father and son duo from Thatcham have cycled more than 1,000 miles in 12 days for charity.

Bart and 14-year-old Ethan Kuijten set off for the Land’s End to John O’Groats cycle challenge on July 28.

The pair – who are members of Newbury Velo – completed 1,016 miles despite facing rain, wind and relentless hills.

So far, they have raised £1,361 for mental health charity Time to Talk – surpassing their £1,000 target.

Donations can be made to their JustGiving page at https://shorturl.at/bcRW5

“The best bits were the downhills,” the Kennet School pupil said.

“The toughest parts were when it was wet, as the rain made it really cold which made it much harder to cycle.

“It’s good our cycle raised loads of money for a charity that can use the money to help young people.”

This isn’t the first challenge taken on by the Kennet pupil, Ethan has ridden 581 miles around the north coast of Scotland.

At just 10-years-old he also cycled 359 miles from Holyhead in North Wales all the way back to Thatcham in aid of BBC Children in Need, raising around £1,700.

Dad Bart congratulated his teenaged son and said it was an amazing experience for them to have shared.

“Some days were really tough,” he said.

“When the rain was pouring, the wind battering us and the relentless hills, but what an amazing experience to share with my son.

“Well done Ethan.

“And thank you for all the positive messages and sponsorship, they really helped us get through it.

“We were definitely pleased to be off the bikes at the end of it.”