A CANCER charity worker who works alongside an inspiring fundraiser has decided to get into gear too.
Matt Goodwin, 35, from Wombwell, works as a communications and engagement officer for Macmillan Cancer Support.
Part of his role has seen him working alongside legendary ‘man with the pram’ John Burkhill who has recently gone past £1m in his indefatigable fundraising.
Sheffielder John’s efforts have certainly rubbed off on Matt and he will cycle from Southport to Hornsea in a coast-to-coast mission with a group of friends next month.
Father-of-two Matt is actually looking forward to the 215-mile journey.
He said: “I wanted to show John just how much he means to me and the people of Yorkshire.
“He’s quite literally gone the extra mile for everyone, despite facing such overwhelming personal tragedy, so I felt like this was the least I could do for him and people living with cancer.
“John is without doubt the most inspirational bloke I’ve ever met.
“He’s 85 in January and is still taking part in races across the country.
“The day we arrive in Hornsea is the same day John will be doing the Great North Run – his 1,042nd race!
“I’m looking forward to the actual ride.
“As far as challenges go, it’s not the biggest but it will certainly be a test.
“We won’t be racing it.
“It will be more a ride of reflection and remembrance, as we all think of those we have lost to cancer.
“Famously, John is fuelled by bread and dripping.
“Whilst he is Sheffield through and through, he loves it when we meet up and I bring along some famous Percy Turner pork pies – he can’t get enough of them.
“I deal with a lot of professionals, fundraisers and people living with cancer every day, and I see what Macmillan means to them.
“I thought by raising a bit of money to go towards John’s total would be my little tribute to them and to John.”
Matt is hoping to raise £1,000 and has thus far secured a quarter of his goal.
