Derek Heasman, 74, a former head teacher of Bedmond School, will cycle non-stop from St James’ Palace in London to Holyrood House, Edinburgh, taking him up to six weeks to complete.
And he is attempting this feat despite having undergone major cancer surgery, in November 2004 and again in February this year, which resulted in two malignant tumors being removed from parts of his left and right kidneys.
Derek, who lives in Stanmore and taught in Bedmond from 1968 to 1978, is no stranger to epic journeys.
In April 2004, he cycled over 160 miles from the Irish Sea to the North Sea, and in May 2005, he biked 260 miles from Newcastle to Edinburgh – raising almost £30,000 along the way.
He said: “This cycle challenge will prove to me that seemingly unconquerable tasks can be achieved when someone turns their mind to them.
“When I was diagnosed with cancer, I was determined to prove to myself, and others, that such a medical setback was not going to stop me living a full and active life.
“If my efforts can help to inspire others in similar situations, then every single mile will have been worthwhile.”
Derek, married for 43 years to wife Patricia, with three sons and 12 grandchildren, has devoted his life to helping young people, and received an OBE in 2002 for his services to education, which spanned a 50-year teaching career.
He is now the chairman of The Prince’s Trust Fundraising Committee and has raised more than £45,000 already in sponsorship for the charity. His cross-country journey will start at St James’ Palace tomorrow (Monday) and he will take in the sights of Windsor Castle and Sandringham before arriving in Holyrood Castle.
To sponsor Derek, visit www.princes-trust.org.uk/ derekheasman.
