Frank, 86, cycles 26 miles for Sheffield hospital charity

Frank Abel cycled around Norfolk Park on his e-biketo raise money for the Sheffield Hospitals Charity, which supports the city’s hospitals.

He had initially planned to cycle 2.6 miles, but, even at the age of 86, found it was not challenging enough for him.

Now he needs residents help to reach his target and ensure the NHS in Sheffield gets the support it needs at this time.

Sheffield Hospitals Charity is taking part in the national Two Point Six Challenge which has been created to support charities who are losing income as a result of the postponement of the London Marathon.

And when Frank heard about this, he was keen to get do his bit.

He said: “I live alone and enjoy cycling on my e-bike.

“I set off to do at least 2.6 miles on Thursday morning, but after 10 laps of the park in an hour, I realis ed I might need to revise my plan as that equated to 10 miles.

“I had thought about doing another 10 laps later that day.

“However, I thought it might be better, at 86, to pace myself so I carried on over the next few days. I ended up doing 30 laps in total just to be on the safe side.

“When I heard about the challenge, I just wanted to do my bit to support the NHS in Sheffield.

“It seems that everybody is going to such extraordinary lengths and we are all so very grateful.

“It only seemed right that I chipped in.

“And now I’d be thrilled if I can raise as much as possible, so that we can give our hospital the support it deserves.”

David Reynolds, charity executive director, said: "When we heard about Frank’s efforts we were all blown away.

“What he is doing to support the NHS is nothing short of heroic.

“For Frank to now up his challenge is quite extraordinary, and so we think that its only right that we work even harder to help him beat this fundraising target.

“If you can support Frank, and at the same time, help your local NHS, it would mean the world.”

Frank is raising funds via Justgiving – see justgiving.com/fundraising/frank-abel