A STAFF member from a educational care farm in Broughton Gifford is preparing for a gruelling off-road cycling challenge to raise money for the centre.
Education and wellbeing officer, Brendan Sellwood – who works at The Willows Care Farm, which was opened last year by the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust – plans to cycle all 87 miles of Britain’s oldest road, the Ridgeway – and he is estimating that he will complete the challenge in 10 hours.
Money raised from his challenge, which he will be attempting alongside his friend James Gladding, will go towards the running costs of the care farm.
“It’s an off-road adventure on the Ridgeway, explains Brendan, “starting at Ivinghoe Beacon near Tring in Buckinghamshire, finishing close to home this way. Knowing that we are heading in the direction of home will be the positive mental boost I need when I get tired!
“It’s 87 miles of mainly off-road riding, which is a totally different ballgame to road cycling – it’s definitely one that will be hard on the old saddle!”
The Willows Care Farm offers children, young people and adults with individual needs, the opportunity for meaningful education and work-based experiences in nature conservation, farming, horticulture and forest school activities.
“It’s a charity that is very close to my heart,” said Brendan, “and working here I can see the great work that is done and the positive effect it has on those that need the service.
“I experience the wonderfully managed and organised input that benefits many individuals of various ages, first-hand. Working within an inspiring team, allowing and enabling people to gain confidence and learn new skills is brilliant
“Time spent in a different environment where patience and understanding is readily given, can change people’s lives for the better, when they most need it.
“I feel both lucky and fortunate that I am to be able to witness positive changes taking place readily. Witnessing this progress on a regular basis reinforces why I’m doing what I’m doing and gives myself an immense sense of pride and privilege.”
About his upcoming challenge in June, Brendan said, “I’m feeling a little bit apprehensive, I’ve never done anything like this before, but I like to think that I am confident
“It will be no easy feat, but I am determined, especially as I am doing it for such a good cause.
“Fundraising is going well so far. We’ve almost hit our target of £1,000, so we are hoping to double that so we can help purchase more supplies so all the students can get even more reward and benefit from their time at the care farm, making their time here even more positive.”
To support Brendan and to donate, visit the website: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/brendans
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