High Peak teens set off on 1,000 mile bike ride for Alzheimer's research charity in memory of relatives

Isaac Brown and Lucas Parker both 19, set off from John O’Groats on Friday, May 7, and are aiming to arrive in Land’s End on Friday, May 21.

As if that was not enough, along the way they will stop to run up Britain’s three highest peaks Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon.

Before setting off, Buxton resident Lucas said: “I know this is not going to be easy, but grandad’s resilience and achievements will be with me each mile and won’t be forgotten.”

The pair have been friends since meeting at St Thomas More School aged 12. Both had been looking for an adventure in lockdown and decided that with each other’s support they could take on something big.

Isaac, who lives in New Mills, said: “Having this goal has really motivated me to get cycle fit during the last 18 months.

“Cycling is good to focus the mind and switch off from other stuff, it’s good for your mental health.”

The pair have so far netted £1,530 in sponsorship for Alzheimer's Research UK, a charity close to hearts of both their families.

Lucas’s grandad and Isaac’s great grandad both suffered the devastating effects of brain damage and deterioration caused by Alzheimer’s.

They hope their ride will shine a light on the work of scientists across the world to understand and, maybe one day, prevent the traumatic suffering it causes.

Lucas said: “My grandad is sadly missed. He was a very positive and determined man with fantastic memories from his family life and days as an international athlete and sports journalist. Alzheimer’s took all this away from him.”

Cycling goes back a long way in Lucas’s family. His great great grandmother was one of the first members of the Cyclist Touring Club in Sheffield around the 1900s, and his great grandad ran one of the city’s first bicycle shops..

They have much in common with Isaac’s family, with his brother Josh now working Cycle Space in Disley, and dad Doug joining the round-Britain Great Tour last year.

To follow the pair’s updates on their progress, go to instagram.com/lucas_isaac_jogtle.

To add to their fundraising total, go to https://bit.ly/3fjqcSN.

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