Grantham dad’s 1000 mile challenge to fund vital research into Alzheimer’s

After seeing the effect of Alzheimer’s on both his father and grandmother, Andy Hayton has decided to set himself a 1000 mile cycling challenge to raise money for Alzheimer’s Research UK.

The Grantham father-of-two who turns 42 tomorrow, clocked up 63 miles at Sunday’s Belvoir Classic, and aims to have completed at least 1000 miles in the saddle by the time he crosses the line on August 2 at Prudential RideLondon.

A self-employed computer programmer, Andy lives on Barrowby Road with his wife Lauren and daughters Abigail, 3, and 7 month old Amelia. It is family that has led him to take on this challenge.

“The reason I chose Alzheimer’s Research UK was because my Dad has Alzheimer’s, and my Grandma,” explains Andy. “There are 850,000 people currently living with dementia in the UK and this number will only grow. My Dad was a research scientist so it seems fitting that the fund-raising from my challenge will help with vital research into this horrible disease.”

He added: “The 1000 miles will be made up of a number of organised events, and lots of local rides.”

Jessica Hiscocks, regional fund-raising officer at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “We can’t thank Andrew enough for taking on this incredible challenge to support our world-class research.

“We wish him every success with his 1000-mile cycle ride and look forward to cheering him on when he completes his challenge at the Prudential RideLondon – Surrey 100 on August 2.

“Every £20 he raises will fund another hour of vital dementia research.”

To sponsor Andy, visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/andrewhayton

For more information about Alzheimer’s Research UK, call 0300 111 5555 or visit www.alzheimersresearchuk.org