A DAD who devastatingly lost his son after a battle with a brain tumour has completed a huge charity challenge – cycling all the way from Scotland to Southend.
Simon Lambert, 51, arrived back in Leigh on Sunday afternoon surrounding by friends and family after finishing the 480-mile bike ride.
The Westcliff resident has raised more than £8,000 for charity as he took on the challenge in memory of his son, Archie.
Archie was just five when he died in January 2023 after nearly two years of treatment for a brain tumour.
Simon’s planned route had a special meaning as driving from Edinburgh to Southend, via York, was one of the last trips the family took with Archie.
Since Archie’s death, Simon has made it a mission to raise as much money as possible for a number of charities that supported Archie.
Simon said: “I had been training for this, but nothing could prepare me for some of the hills, especially over the Yorkshire Moors.
“There were some really hard points, mentally and physically, but thinking of Archie and how much all the charities have helped us, kept me going.
“My friend Steve provided support from his campervan, made sure I was hydrated and fed, and kept me in good spirits too.
“I was totally overwhelmed by the support at the end. I didn’t expect such a turnout.
“It was so great to see my amazing wife, children, and friends who had a pint for me waiting at the finish line too.”
The money will be split between a number of charities, including Little Havens, Young Lives vs Cancer, Abbie’s Army, The Unbeatable Eva Foundation, Torbay Holiday Helpers Network, Thumbs up For Charlie, Gold Geese and Make-a-Wish UK.
“From the start I have been humbled how much the charities had helped us. It is hard to describe how much the charities have helped. I really don’t know what people do without them,” he said.
“I am so glad that we can try to give back in some way and keep Archie’s memory alive. They are amazing people, and I felt this was the least I could do.
“In these hard financial times, I am amazed that people have been able to dig deep to help support.“It has been amazing and overwhelming.”
To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/team/ArchieLambert
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