A GROUP of cyclists have completed a gruelling journey from Land’s End to John O’Groats, raising more than £34,000 for cancer charities following a young man’s battle with lymphoma.
Marc Hughes, Dave Blackmore and Martin Jones finished the 1,024-mile ride in 14 days, travelling the length of the UK with minimal gear in support of Teenage Cancer Trust and Young Lives vs Cancer.
The challenge was inspired by Dave’s son, Shôn Blackmore, a former pupil of Ysgol Y Garnedd and Ysgol Tryfan in Bangor, who was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma at the age of 19.
“In June 2025, our lives were turned upside down when Shôn was diagnosed,” Dave said.
“At the time, Shôn was living his best life at the University of Liverpool, studying law and loving every minute of it.
“Almost overnight, that normal student life disappeared. He became seriously unwell and was suddenly thrust into a world of hospital wards, tests, pain, and uncertainty.”
Shôn underwent multiple biopsies, operations and an aggressive course of chemotherapy, but suffered severe complications.
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“Sadly, his body reacted horrendously to the treatment," Dave said.
"Over the following months, he faced complication after complication, including COVID-19, chemical meningitis, and severe back problems.
“Shôn spent four months in hospital, fighting battles no young person and no parent should ever have to face.”
Despite the challenges, Shôn has since received the all-clear and is recovering well.
To give back for the support they received, Dave and his friends took on the endurance ride, which they self-funded.
- Supporters can still donate via the group’s fundraising page, which remains open -givewheel.com/fundraising/12601/lejog-1000-miles-for-two-charities-lets-have-it
The cyclists were met at the finish line in John O’Groats by Shôn in a surprise reunion.
Funds raised will be split between Teenage Cancer Trust and Young Lives vs Cancer, as well as supporting services at the Clatterbridge Cancer Centre’s Teenage and Young Adult Unit, where Shôn received treatment.
“The Clatterbridge TYA team supported Shôn with outstanding care, compassion, and understanding,” Dave said.
“Young Lives vs Cancer were there when we needed them most providing practical help, emotional support, and reassurance when everything felt overwhelming.”
The fundraising total currently stands at more than £34,000, with in excess of £5,000 in gift aid, nearing a £35,000 target.
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