Matthew set to cycle 100 miles for Peterborough City Hospital unit

Matthew Hunt, 27, who works for Hanson Cement, in Ketton, will attempt to complete the challenge next Saturday.

Alongside a team of around 30 colleagues, Matthew will tackle a circular route beginning and ending in Blaxhall, Suffolk.

He is seeking sponsorship to help the rheumatology department at Peterborough City Hospital buy a new scanner.

Matthew said: “I’m not a super experienced cyclist, but I have been doing it on and off for a while and I liked the sound of the challenge.

“It won’t be easy for me. I’ve been doing some training and recently did a 70-mile trip, so I’m feeling optimistic.

“I know that the rheumatology department is currently raising funds to purchase an ultrasound scanner which will benefit patients and I hope that my sponsored cycle ride will help them to reach this target sooner.”

Matthew’s colleagues are raising money for different causes, but he was inspired to help the hospital because Anita Altham, mother of his girlfriend Danielle Altham, works there.

Anita, a rheumatology nurse specialist, is proud of Matthew’s pledge to help out.

She said: “On behalf of the department, I would like to thank Matthew for his fundraising efforts.

“A new scanner will make such a huge difference to all our patients.

“I know personally how hard he has trained for the gruelling 100 mile challenge that he faces and wish him luck.”

It is not the first time Matthew has raised money for a good cause.

Back in 2012, when he had long hair, Matthew had his head shaved at the Drum and Monkey pub, in Casterton Road, to raise funds for Pancreatic Cancer UK.

To donate, visit https://crowdfunding.justgiving.com/matthew-hunt