Yahoo News Whitley Bay lad's epic 300 mile cycle challenge for brain tumour research in honour of his much-loved Uncle Andy
An 11-year-old from Whitley Bay has cycled almost 300 miles across September in honour of his late uncle.
Lucas Wilkinson's Uncle Andy died after developing a cancerous brain tumour in 2019 - he was barely into his 40s - and would have turned 48 last month. Lucas, who is in year 7 at Marden Bridge Middle School, set out to raise £1,000 for Brain Tumour Research by cycling 250 miles, but the sporty youngster has decided to up his challenge.
Mum Emma, who is Andy's sister and has been cycling with her son, said she was exceptionally proud of him and added: "It's starting to take its toll. We are trying to fit it in when it's still light - each Saturday we have done a 30-32 mile ride.
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"After my brother passed away we promised we would continue to fundraise for brain tumour research. Lucas set a target of £1,000 - we would have loved to have gone higher but we know it is a lot to ask people each year."
Lucas himself told ChronicleLive: "It matters because my uncle died of brain cancer and other people need to be able to get the treatments they need.
"I wanted to do something big - I always think it's good to challenge yourself. The support makes me feel really good, lots of people want to make a difference."
Over the last few days of the month Lucas has a couple more rides planned and is going to smash the 300 mile target.
The football-mad lad - who plays for both Whitley Bay Football Club and Gosforth Bohemians - has previously taken on other incredible sporting challenges for the same cause. In 2022 he ran 46 miles for charity and was encouraged with a personal message and shout-out from then-Newcastle United co-owner Merhdad Ghodoussi.
To support Lucas's fundraiser, click here.
