Posted: 8 September, 2025
A group of friends transformed their annual bike ride into a powerful fundraiser and awareness campaign for motor neuron disease (MND) over the weekend and Wheels for All were on hand to support by supplying an adapted cycle for the journey! The event, which took place on Saturday 6th September is dedicated to their friend, Luke, who was diagnosed with the devastating condition age 34 and whose mobility has since deteriorated.
For over ten years, the group has enjoyed a yearly tradition of cycling between local pubs, with Luke a central part of the fun. Following his diagnosis with MND, the friends felt compelled to reignite their traditional event for a greater purpose. This year, the bike ride will raise vital funds and awareness for two leading charities, My Name’5 Doddie Foundation and the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA).
Last year. Luke’s Hadrian’s Wall Challenge formed the foundation of his fundraising efforts and was a major milestone in Luke’s journey. Despite the immense physical and emotional toll, he successfully completed the demanding challenge, demonstrating incredible resilience and a deep commitment to raising funds for MND research. Since then, his mobility has unfortunately deteriorated further, making this year’s bike ride an even more significant and poignant event.
Luke himself joined the ride on a specialist disability cycle, generously provided by the team here at Wheels for All. His determination to participate, is an incredible inspiration for the entire group.
The ride started and ended at the Carpenters Arms in Great Wilbraham, a pub with a special connection to the group as it’s close to where his in-laws live. The pub is supporting the cause by supplying a unique charity beer, playfully named by Luke as ‘;My Next Drink’ (MND). The pub has pledged to donate £1 from every pint sold to Luke’s fundraising page. Luke has raised an impressive £57,000 so far and would love to reach £100,000 on his fundraising page. The group hopes this event, and the community’s support, will help him get closer to that target. Every donation, no matter how small, is a crucial step towards
finding a cure and supporting those affected by MND.
For more information on Lukes story and to donate please visit:
https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/lukes-hadrians-wall-challenge
Hannah Johns, Regional Manager, East for Wheels for all comments; “Wheels for All is proud
to be supporting Luke in taking part in his upcoming charity ride. Luke would not have been
able to join the ride on a standard two-wheeled bike, but thanks to our side-by-side tandem,
he’ll be cycling alongside a friend and as part of the group. We believe everyone should
have the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of cycling, and it’s inspiring to see Luke’s
determination to take on this personal challenge with his friends and family. Members of the
Wheels for All East team will hopefully be joining Luke on the route, and we’re delighted to
help make his participation possible as he rides through Great Wilbraham and the
surrounding villages.”
Paul Thompson, Director Fundraising at My Name’5 Doddie Foundation said: “Luke is an
incredibly determined individual, and it has been no surprise to see his friends are just the
same. What a great combination of exercise and socialising, Doddie would have loved it.
