We usually see tyres on cars, not bicycles, at our driving school. That’s why we’re especially proud of Charlie, one of our driving instructors in Burgess Hill and Crawley, who is swapping the driver’s seat for a Victorian-style penny farthing to raise money for charity.
On Sunday, 21 December, the shortest day of the year, Charlie plans to cycle more than 100 miles on his penny farthing dressed as Santa.
Charlie’s route will take a big loop around Sussex, riding along trails like the Downs Link, Worth Way, Forest Way, Route 21 and the Cuckoo Trail. Along the way, he’ll roll through or close to Horsham, Crawley, East Grinstead, Crowborough, Lewes, Brighton and Worthing.
Why Charlie’s cycling for charity
He isn’t doing this just for the thrill. Riding a fixed-wheel Victorian bike for over 100 miles dressed as Santa is already quite a challenge. Charlie is doing this to support two great causes:
- PAPA (People Against Parental Alienation): raising awareness about parental alienation, supporting those who are impacted by it.
- Finley’s Touch: supporting children diagnosed with cancer along with their families across the South East, including Hampshire, Kent, Surrey, and Sussex.
Charlie says this ride, with all its aches and challenges, is his way of honouring and supporting those helped by these charities, and “reminding them that they are not forgotten.” He wants to highlight the struggles faced by the children and families involved.
Charlie’s penny farthing challenge
The penny farthing Charlie is riding is very different from a modern bike. It has no gears, no suspension, no real brakes, and a fixed wheel. Every pedal stroke takes strength, balance, and focus.
As Charlie put it, “Every mile of this trip will take focus, grit, and strength. I need to pedal the whole time the bike is in motion, no breaks or coasting. It’s going to be really difficult.”
Since December 21 is the shortest day of the year with limited daylight, the ride will require discipline from dawn to dusk. On top of this, Charlie has been suffering from cracked ribs, so much of his training has been concentrating on rebuilding his lung capacity and strength.
How you can help: give a little cheer and maybe a donation 🎁
Charlie has already raised over £700, but he’s aiming for £1000.
If you’d like to support his Santa on wheels adventure and help families and children in need, you can donate using the red button below:
Every pound, no matter how small, gives Charlie an extra boost to help him on his way.
Why this matters to us
We’re keen to support Charlie as he raises money for two causes that mean a great deal to him. Taking on a 100-mile ride on a penny farthing is no small feat, and we hugely respect his commitment and determination.
We’re proud to have Charlie on our team, and we’ll be backing him all the way as he raises funds and awareness for the charities he’s chosen.
If you feel inspired and want to help, visit his GoFundMe page to leave a donation and maybe a “Go, Santa, go!” message too.
Every contribution, big or small, will help Charlie make an even greater impact.
