A solo cyclist is embarking on a gruelling 15-hour bike challenge to raise money for Holme Valley Mountain Rescue.

Steve Eastwood, 42, of Milnsbridge, is to tackle the 50 climbs around the Colne and Holme valleys featured in a book by local cyclist Dick Facey.

The climbs total 199 miles or 336 km and involve an elevation of some 9,000 metres. High points include the cyclists’ nemesis Holme Moss and Castle Hill.

Steve’s September Facey Fifty Cycle Challenge, which includes a few twists but not many (u)-turns, will see Steve in the saddle for 15 hours. The only stops will be for refreshment and comfort breaks. The ride will take place on Saturday September 14.

Steve, who is a member of Holme Valley Mountain Rescue, said: “I’m never one to turn down a challenge, especially on two wheels, and Dick Facey once said to me that if I rode all 50 he would give me £20.

“I’ve decided to take him up on the challenge but instead of £20 I thought I’d turn it into a few thousand pounds – hopefully – for the great cause that is Holme Valley Mountain Rescue. As a team we receive no Government funding and rely totally on donations and the generosity of the public.”

 

 

Steve added: “The challenge was – and still is – to complete all 50 climbs in one ride. However, this was achieved by Ed Wolstenholme a few years ago so I needed to go a few steps further.

“My route will complete all 50 in sequential order as in Dick’s book. But it doesn’t end there. I will only descend back onto the valleys via any road once and only make u-turns twice, at Castle Hill and Holme Moss.

“All other climbs will see me loop round via a different descent or looping round roads near the top of the climb just completed.”

Steve, a member of Huddersfield Star Wheelers, added: “It’s going to be a real challenge but it’s one I’m looking forward to.

“Hopefully we can raise some serious money to help Holme Valley Mountain Rescue continue to provide its services to the people of the valley.”

Holme Valley Mountain Rescue is having an open day on Saturday September 21 (11am-3pm) at Emergency House, Manchester Road, Marsden, with games, stalls, refreshments and a chance to meet other emergency services.

To find out all the details of the climbs go to www.facey-fifty.uk

Sponsor Steve at www.facey-fifty.uk/2024-challenge