Adrian begins chain reaction for Maggie’s

A TEENAGER is embarking on a massive 4000-mile cycling challenge across Europe to raise money for a cancer charity.

Adrian Clark, 17, is setting off today from Lisbon in Portugal and will take in Spain, France, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Hungary, Romania, Slovakia, Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, Luxembourg, Belgium and England before returning to Edinburgh.

The Currie Community High School pupil will cycle an average of 100 miles per day and aims to complete his challenge in around 36 days.

Adrian is raising money for Maggie’s Cancer Caring Centres and has already exceeded his £2000 target. The charity is close to his heart as a family member recently used one of its centres.

It is the second time Adrian has take on such a challenge after cycling 1,200 miles around Scotland last year.

And he has won the support of round-the-world cyclist Mark Beaumont, who has donated items for Adrian’s trip.

His mother, Audrey Clark, from Currie, said: “It’s always been a personal challenge for him. He cycled solo around Scotland and this is the next step up.

“He never actually did very much training. He read Mark Beaumont’s book and he didn’t do too much training beforehand so he’s taken inspiration from him. We wrote to Mark and he donated some tops and shorts. They are following each other on Twitter.”

Adrian will be camping and staying in youth hostels during his trip.

Mrs Clark, 45, who works in banking, said she would be worried about her son’s safety but had faith in his abilities.

She said: “He was going to do it anyway so it’s better that we supported him. I have asked him to keep in touch but to do it irregularly so that I’m not worrying if he doesn’t call. He has got a wise head on his shoulders.”

Adrian raised £640 through a ceilidh at Hogmanay and also organised fundraising events at his school. To date, he has raised just over £2100.

Adrian said: “Maggie’s is my chosen charity because Maggie’s Centres provide calm, uplifting, inspiring places.

“People can access information on cancer and its treatment, emotional support, confidential counselling and advice.”

[email protected]