Young Wigan fund-raiser getting on his bike for dementia charity challenge

Owen Cross, from Winstanley, is aiming to cycle 500km to raise money for Alzheimer’s Research UK.

His grandma Joan Hackett, 73, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s two years ago and he desperately wants to help fund research into the condition.

And with it being the lockdown, he is using his own turbo machine to complete the challenge, along with the occasional cycle with his dad Graham.

The 13-year-old has already notched up 200km and raised more than £200 for the charity which aims to bring about the first life-changing dementia treatment by 2025.

The Orrell St Peter’s High pupil said: “I have decided to take on this challenge as my grandma is living with Alzheimer’s. This has helped me to realise just how important this research is for her and others like her.

"As we are in isolation I will be carrying out this challenge using my turbo trainer.”

The challenge is called Summer Cycling Down Dementia 2020. Participants can get on their bike between April 1 and June 30 and raise money to help put the brakes on dementia by raising at least £150.

They can ride 500km, 1,500km or any other distance, in the great outdoors or on an indoor bike.

Owen said: “I’ve joined #TeamARUK. Please help me reach my fundraising target by giving whatever you can using the ‘Give Now’ button.

“The more people know about Alzheimer’s Research UK, the greater their impact, so please spread the word by sharing my page with your friends and family.”

To donate money to Owen, visit Owen’s cycle for Alzheimer’s page.