Former Huddersfield RUFC director of rugby Gaz Lewis is taking part in a 144-mile bike ride to raise funds and awareness for motor neurone disease (MND).

The coast-to-coast ride goes from Workington in the West to Tynemouth in the East and will be completed over two days this weekend (May 20 and 21).

Money raised will go to the Darby Rimmer MND Foundation which raises money for research and to support families. It’s a cause close to home for Huddersfield RUFC as the football star father of two of the players has been diagnosed with the condition.

Marcus Stewart, dad of Field players Kian and Fin Stewart, is a former Huddersfield Town legend. He was diagnosed in September 2022.

The Darby Rimmer MND Foundation was founded by former Liverpool, Bradford City and Bolton Wanderers footballer Stephen Darby and close friend and British Forces veteran Chris Rimmer.

Both Stephen and Chris have MND and want to fund and assist research and help find a cure as well as support families affected by the condition.

Gaz Lewis on his 10 years in charge at Huddersfield RUFC and how he wants to re-charge his batteries and spend quality time with his family

Lewis, who will ride alongside representatives from each of the 14 National Two North rugby union clubs, admitted he hadn’t done much training but was ready for the challenge.

“I wouldn’t say our training regime has been vigorous by any stretch of the imagination,” he said. “For that reason the challenge will be that much harder but it’s a group of like minded lads coming together and I’m sure we’ll dig in deep to support each other and have good craic along the way.”

Lewis has set a target of £5,000 and added: “Any kind donations are obviously gratefully received and thank you to all those who have kindly donated so far.

“Special mentions have to go to Martin Thornton Estate Agents, The Pivot Group, DLT podiatry and Steripod who have all been generous in their support.”

Donate to Gareth’s challenge by clicking HERE.