Driving instructor cycles 100 miles on a penny farthing to raise funds for charity
An inspirational driving instructor is taking on a festive fundraising challenge like no other: cycling over 100 miles on a penny farthing dressed as Santa Claus.
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Charlie, who works for driveJohnson’s driving school based in Milton Keynes, will be attempting this on the shortest day of the year, Sunday 21 December. His planned route follows trails across Sussex, including the Downs Link, Worth Way and the Cuckoo Trail, passing near Horsham, Crawley, East Grinstead, Lewes, Brighton and Worthing.
Riding a penny farthing is tough. This Victorian-style bike has no gears, no freewheel, and limited braking, meaning Charlie must pedal continuously for the whole journey, in winter conditions with limited daylight.
He is raising money for PAPA (People Against Parental Alienation) and Finley’s Touch, a charity supporting children with cancer and their families.
Charlie said, “Every mile is going to be really difficult because I have to pedal the whole time the bike is moving. There’s no coasting and no breaks. I’m very grateful for everyone supporting me: it really means a lot.”
driveJohnson’s is backing Charlie’s fundraising effort, sharing his story to help raise awareness and encourage donations locally and nationwide.
Charlie hopes the challenge will raise vital funds for these charities and draw attention to the challenges children and families face, particularly at what can be a difficult time of year.
To find out more about Charlie’s fundraising journey and donate, visit: