Five people are walking over 100 kilometres in five days across the Saharan desert to raise funds in memory of a biker who lost his life.
Phil Beeton, from Ely, died after a crash on the A10 in October 2015.
Since 2016, a bicycle and motorbike ride named Phil’s Ride has been taking place in aid of the East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA).
But this time, Phil’s brother David, alongside Phil’s nephews Jack, Lewis and family friends Ben Layn and Codie Butcher have decided to take on a different challenge.
“I think it is brilliant what they are doing,” Danny Beeton, Phil’s father, said.
“I just don’t know what else to say.”
David, Jack, Lewis, Ben and Codie arrived in Morocco for their Saharan trek last Saturday and plan to finish the 66-mile route on the weekend of November 12-13.
It is the latest fundraiser that Phil’s Ride, organised by Dave Fletcher which has raised over £79,000 for the EAAA, is taking on this year after its main bicycle and motorcycle event in August.
But the Saharan trek is perhaps more poignant for Jack, who was helped by Prince William and his EAAA colleagues before being airlifted to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge after the crash.
“Jack had to learn to walk again but there are life-changing situations that have happened to him,” said Phil’s family.
“We think the group are so brave, but inspiring and the fact he [Jack] can come through what he has to do this trek.
“It’s an achievement he and everyone should be proud of.”
This year, Phil’s Ride took place on August Bank Holiday Sunday (August 28) where motorcyclists and cyclists rode 109 miles and 21 miles respectively for the EAAA.
Motorcycles rode a 109-mile return route between The Old White Bell pub in Southery and Blakeney, where Phil and his partner Jane used to ride for leisure days out.
Bicycles are ridden in a 21-mile return route to Downham Market to the Wimbotsham Chequers.
Danny added: “It is a brilliant thing to do to keep Phil’s memory alive.”
Phil's family would like to thank the Phil's Ride team and others who have supported and donated towards the EAAA.
To donate, visit Phil’s Ride’s JustGiving page at: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/philsride2022.
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