Charlie wheels his way for charity

While many 13-year-olds spend their time playing Fifa, Charlie Swallow, from School Street Norristhorpe, completed a massive 143-mile journey through steep climbs and treacherous conditions in just two days.

Charlie, who completed the ride with his dad, Dave, said: “I have been riding properly for about a year, so I thought it would be a good challenge.

The two started off in Whitehaven, Cumbria on Friday at 10am. The route took in mountainous regions, which meant steep climbs – none of which proved a problem for Charlie.

“I think my dad found it more difficult than I did!” said the St John Fisher pupil. “I was warned about the climbs, such as one at Hartside, but it wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be.

“It was quite difficult on the Saturday, though, as there was sleet and rain.”

Charlie, who rides with Kirklees Cycling Academy, completed the journey on Sunday evening when the pair arrived in Tynemouth.

He has already raised more than £300 from the ride, which will go towards Guide Dogs UK.

He said: “I may do something like this again.”

If you would like to donate to Charlie’s fundraising, visit www.justgiving.co.uk/charlieswallow.