Fireman cycles from England to Torrevieja in just 19-days to raise funds for charity

A passing remark from father to son evolved into a 1,500-mile.19-day cycle ride from Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, through France and Andorra, which finished in Torrevieja last Wednesday.

The ‘dad’ Tony Pipkin, is well known in entertainment circles around Torrevieja and it was while his son Howard was visiting last summer that Tony remarked that if he could, he’d like to cycle between Torrevieja and England! Knowing that his father was a little too old for the task, fireman Howard decided that this would be an excellent way to raise funds for charity and fulfil one of his father’s ambitions.

Last year, a close friend, Andy Peel died suddenly, leaving behind a wife and two children so Howard set out to raise funds to help the family in the future with such expenses as school uniforms, equipment and trips. He also is giving to Stoke Mandeville Hospital eye unit appeal and The Fire Fighters Charity. Although his quest has now ended, you can still donate by visiting www.justgiving.com/howardpipkin and giving online. Up to now, his adventure has raised over €5,000 for these worthy causes.

Over the 19-days, Howard said that he wished he had Satellite Navigation to help him though the mountain stages but was pleased that otherwise he did not get lost or have to call anyone for directions until, believe it or not, the last day, when he found himself in Guadamar looking for The Dubliner Pub. Unable to find it, he called Tony, only to discover that he should have been in La Mata! So close and yet so far!

On arrival in La Mata, Howard was greeted by Graham Knight from the Town Hall, two local police officers and members of the press. After a few photos with mum and dad, Sue and Tony, ex-fireman David Graham plus Sean and Tricia from The Dubliner, he was escorted to the Town Hall to be greeted by the Deputy Mayor and members of the council. By the way, he does have one bike, hardly used, for sale!

Keith Nicol

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