Rob saddles up for heroes (From Redhill And Reigate Life)

Rob saddles up for heroes

9:20am Thursday 28th May 2009

• Print
• Email
• Share
• Comments(0)

A police sergeant will be swapping his uniform for cycling gear and a backpack when he takes part in a charity bike ride of about 1,000 miles.

Sgt Rob Butler from the Targeted Patrol Team (TPT) based at Reigate, will be cycling from Lands End to John O'Groats next month.

He will be taking on the challenge to raise money for the charity Help for Heroes.

Joining him in setting off on Friday, June 12, will be friends Mark Warren and Jonathan Baker.

Together they hope to raise £1,000.

Help for Heroes supports servicemen and women wounded in the line of duty in current conflicts.

The trio expect their cycle ride to take two weeks, but the challenge could be tough for Rob who has just recovered from a dislocated knee.

He said: “It wasn’t that long ago I was barely able to walk, but this has been a timely reminder of how fortunate able-bodied people are.

“It’s taught me that the very fact I am able to undertake a journey such as this should never be taken for granted.”

Rob is determined to complete the challenge, and has been training hard, pedalling the hills of East Surrey.

He said: “I’ve always wanted to do this trip by motorcycle, but that’s too easy.

“I’m not a cyclist though, and up until now, most of my trips have been the very small distance into work.

“But I guess it wouldn’t be a challenge if it was easy.”

Rob said: “I have the greatest respect for the men and women in the Armed Forces and I think Help for Heroes provides invaluable help and support, which is why I’m moving out of my comfort zone to try to raise as much money as possible.”

Rob has already collected nearly £400, the majority of which was donated by his colleagues on the TPT.

People can sponsor Rob and his team online at: www.justgiving.com/robbutlerbikeride

• Print
• Email
• Share
• Comments(0)