Altaf took up a 13-day cycling quest to raise funds for East Lancashire Hospice
Published Tuesday 5 July 2016 at 15:22
Blackburn born and bred accountant completed a tough 13-day bike challenge which saw him cycle 1,000 miles throughout the UK.
Altaf Shaikh, 32, has been working at AMS Accountants Group for 14 years and decided to take up the Land’s End to John O’Groats Cycle challenge.
He has raised over £2,800 for East Lancashire Hospice and is hoping for this to rise as his justgiving page is still open for people to donate.
Altaf, whose hobbies also include classic cars and touring holidays, said:
“It is something I have wanted to do for a long time. I must have been around 17 when I thought of the ride itself.
“It was also a good opportunity to raise more awareness for East Lancashire Hospice.”
The father-of-two admitted the physical pain was quite intense throughout the challenge but claimed it was more mentally challenging.
He enjoyed the scenery and locations he passed through on his travel despite the persistent rain and not-so-good weather.
Altaf was left with wonderful photos and memories thanks to other riders in the group which he liked to socialise with.
As the cyclist was passing his hometown, he was surprised with a big welcome from friends, family and strangers which gave him a confidence boost.
Asked if he would attempt the challenge again, Altaf said:
“Not anytime soon but for the future, definitely. I would also like to look into maybe cycling in Europe.”
If you’d like to support Altaf’s fundraiser, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Altaf-Shaikh
The Land’s End to John O’Groats Cycle challenge starts on the south-westerly tip of England and finishes on the North Coast and John O’Groats in Scotland, covering about 1,000 miles.