​Calderdale man takes on 100 mile cycle each month for Stroke Association

A Calderdale man is embarking on a gruelling cycling challenge for the Stroke Association, a charity close to his heart.

Mike Lynch, 58 from Elland, is cycling 100 miles a month for the rest of the year to raise vital funds for the charity, as part of their Spin for Stroke virtual challenge. He was inspired to fundraise in memory of his partner Christine who had a life-changing stroke, before sadly passing away 10 years ago.

Mike said: “Christine’s stroke changed her life forever, and also changed mine. However, I've turned it into something positive and now do voluntary work for the Stroke Association. I support stroke survivors, particularly those with communication difficulties, in Calderdale and Kirklees. I also work as an ambassador, raising awareness about strokes.

“I used to cycle a lot when I was younger but stopped years ago for various reasons, including being a carer for Christine. I started cycling again recently, and just purchased a new bike for my birthday when I saw the Spin for Stroke Challenge – so I decided to take it on to raise money and give myself a challenge to get fit.

“I started with a 100 mile challenge in June, but I completed that in the first month and decided to extend it. I’ve now targeted 100 miles per month for the duration of the year. I’ve already reached 300 miles and climbed over 19,000 feet. It’s hilly in Calderdale!”

Louise Simonian, Regional Fundraising Manager at the Stroke Association, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled that Mike has chosen to raise vital funds for our charity’s work. A huge thank you to Mike for taking on this challenge to raise much-needed funds so that we can reach out to even more stroke survivors and helped to rebuild more lives.”

To sponsor Mike, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/mike-lynch3. To find out more about the Spin for Stroke challenge and sign up, visit www.stroke.org.uk/fundraising/spin-stroke