Meet Lee and Ben!

A father and son have turned their shared love of cycling into an incredible fundraising adventure, taking on almost 130 miles through some of the North East’s most challenging and beautiful landscapes in support of Wheels for All.

Lee Rochester and his 13-year-old son Ben completed the four-day cycling challenge from Newcastle into Scotland and back, taking in Northumberland, Kielder and the Scottish Border along the way.

But behind the miles, steep climbs and stunning scenery was a simple encounter that inspired the pair to use their adventure to help make cycling accessible to more people.

Cycling has long been an important part of life for Lee and Ben, but it was while out riding together recently that they saw first-hand the difference adapted cycling can make.

“A couple of weeks ago we were out on our bikes and had stopped for a break when a family rode past,” Lee explained.

“The mum was cycling while towing an adapted bike for their disabled daughter, and the dad followed behind. We exchanged a few friendly words, which was lovely, but what really stayed with us was how happy their daughter was, absolutely beaming as she enjoyed their family ride.
“It was genuinely beautiful to see. This is the reason we decided to fundraise for Wheels for All.”

At Wheels for All, we believe everyone should be able to experience the freedom, fun and benefits of cycling. Through our inclusive cycling hubs and programmes, people can access adapted cycles in supportive and welcoming environments, removing some of the barriers that can prevent disabled people and people with long-term health conditions from enjoying cycling.

For Lee and Ben, it was a cause that fitted perfectly with something that has brought them so much happiness over the years.

Lee’s cycling adventures with Ben began long before Ben could pedal a bike of his own.

“Ever since Ben was able to sit up, I had him in a seat on the back of my bike and we went everywhere together,” Lee said.

“When he was finally old enough for his own bike, he took to it straight away. I think he caught the cycling bug from day one. For us, cycling has always been a brilliant way to bond, make memories, stay fit, have fun, and enjoy the great outdoors.”

Those years of riding together prepared the pair for their biggest shared adventure yet, although the challenge itself came together with very little preparation.
Before setting off, Lee and Ben managed just two shorter rides of between 12 and 16 miles, mostly in an attempt to prepare themselves for the inevitable saddle soreness that comes with spending four days on a bike.

What followed was an adventure filled with wildlife, spectacular scenery, tough climbs and plenty of laughter.
“The scenery was stunning, especially riding through Northumberland and on to the Border via Kielder; absolutely breathtaking,” Lee said.
“We were lucky enough to spot buzzards and a few osprey, and one clear night we sat and watched the stars – so magical in a designated dark skies area.”
Among the highlights for Lee was seeing the determination of his 13-year-old son throughout the challenge.

“I was incredibly proud of Ben; he powered up hills that even experienced cyclists struggle with, all while carrying a fully loaded bike,” he said. “Very few adults, let alone a 13-year-old, could take on and complete what he did over those four days of cycling. His determination and resilience were on another level.”

That determination proved particularly important when the pair encountered some of the toughest sections of their route.

On one quiet back road, a series of punishing hills almost persuaded Lee to get off his bike and continue on foot – until Ben provided the motivation he needed stating that he was determined to do the whole journey on a bike and not on foot!

Then came the Ryals, a notoriously challenging Northumberland climb featuring steep gradients that have tested riders in competitive cycling events.
Despite the gruelling climbs, the pair completed their adventure and have been overwhelmed by the response to their fundraiser.

“We’re absolutely blown away by everyone’s support,” Lee said. “Honestly, we never expected to reach this amount, especially after putting the donation page together at the last minute. We’re so thankful for everyone’s generosity.”

Inspiring the next challenge

Lee and Ben’s adventure is a wonderful example of how a love of cycling can be turned into something that helps others experience that same sense of freedom.

For anyone inspired by their story and considering taking on a challenge of their own, Lee has one piece of advice:
“I’d say go for it, and enjoy every minute of whatever challenge you decide to do. Knowing you’re helping people of all abilities get out, experience the freedom of cycling, and have fun makes it even more worthwhile.”

A huge thank you to Lee and Ben for their fantastic effort, and to everyone who has supported their fundraiser.

Support Lee and Ben’s fundraiser: https://www.justgiving.com/page/lee-rochester-2

Inspired to take on your own challenge for Wheels for All? Whether it’s a cycle ride, run, walk or something completely different, your fundraising can help us ensure more people can experience the joy and freedom of cycling. Contact us on fundraising@wheelsforall.org.uk and lets see how we can support your fundraising challenge!