A TEENAGER is cycling 250 miles in memory of his beloved nan.
Matthew Healey, 17, is riding from Knutsford to Middlesbrough and back to raise funds for Dementia UK.
Sadly, his nan Chris Marsden, from Knutsford, died in April from vascular dementia, five weeks before her 70th birthday.
READ > Wilmslow parkrun remembers 'enthusiastic' marshall Beatrice Zuokumor
Matthew preparing to set off on his bike challenge (Image: Supplied)
Former Knutsford Academy student Matthew said: “I will be raising money for the ones who have to live alongside someone with dementia.
“I recently lost my nana to vascular dementia and thought it would be a great opportunity to do something for her.
Matthew with his late nan, Chris (Image: Supplied)
“One in two people will be affected by dementia in their lifetime.
“We need to make a change and help those who are in need.
“Your donation will help in getting these people the help they need by offering carers to look after them.”
Matthew embarked on his gruelling challenge shortly before 6am on Friday.
Dad James met up with him at rendezvous points along the route to provide support, food and drinks.
The route of Matthew's bike challenge (Image: Supplied)
Matthew completed 106 miles on his first leg and has vowed to continue the journey in the coming weeks until he reaches his target.
His mum Adonna said: “I am so proud of him.
“He loves bike riding and goes to the gym for several hours every night.
“He was going to do this without sponsorship until someone suggested he should make it a fundraising event.
“He forked out himself to sort his bike out and get the proper cycling gear.
To support Matthew’s fundraising challenge visit justgiving.com/page/matthew-healey-bike-ride
Matthew gained a black belt in mixed martial arts and enjoys keeping fit.
After completing a two-year performing arts course at Cheshire College South & West, he has decided to change direction for a military career.
Adonna said: “He hopes to join the army and is waiting on medicals.
“He would love to become a para.”
Matthew, who has two sisters, Jessica, 26 and Natalie, 21, celebrates his 18th birthday on August 31.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here