Bakewell cyclist's Everest challenge on static bike to raise money for Helen's Trust

Tom Chaldecott, of Wyedale Crescent, Bakewell aims to equal the distance of a climb up Mount Everest on a static bike in his garden shed on June 20.

Harnessing simulation technology, Tom will take on a climb of the famous French peak Aple d’Huez. He will repeat the ascent until he has reached 8,848m which is the height of Everest, the tallest mountain in the world.

The 29-year-old engineering manager has set his sights on raising £1,750.. At the time of writing this article he had amassed £1180.65 on his Virgin Money Giving fundraising page.

Tom said: “ Taking on extreme challenges around the world during lock down is not possible, I wanted to challenge myself whilst at home and raise much needed money for a local charity who are unable to hold the many fundraising events that they usually do.

“I am delighted with the amount raised so far and I know this will be gratefully appreciated by Helen’s Trust and helps them to continue their vital support in our local communities.”

He will be up with the lark on June 20 to start his challenge at 5am and anticipates it will take a gruelling 19 hours to complete. Tom’s supporters can watch his awe-inspiring efforts in a live streaming on his Facebook page.

Zoe Woodward, fundraising and business manager at Bakewell-based Helen’s Trust said “Tom’s challenge is truly inspirational and Helen’s Trust is very grateful to Tom for taking on this challenge and raising much needed funds to ensure people with a terminal illness are able to stay at home and be cared for, especially at this very difficult time.”

Helen’s Trust supports people with a terminal illness to remain in their own home if they wish to do so by providing care and support.

The charity, which operates in north Derbyshire and the High Peak, funds and co-ordinates non-nursing care such as sitting services overnight and regular carer respite during the day. This enables the main carer, often a family member, to have a few hours’ break in the knowledge that their loved one is looked after and not alone.

To sponsor Tom’s fundraiser for Helen’s Trust , go to https://tinyurl.com/ydfzv865