Gills fan gets on his bike for charity

Last updated : 15 January 2006 By Simon Head

Gills fan Tom (right) and David are cycling across Malawi to raise money for Transaid

Tom, known to many Gills fans online as 'PoshGill', is taking on what he describes as "the biggest challenge of my life" by cycling 460km across Malawi in Southern Africa, with his friend David Stride.

‘Cycle Malawi’ will raise vital funds for Transaid (registered charity No.1072105) - a charity that fights poverty in Africa by working with local people to improve the way that transport is managed. This gives more people access to healthcare, education and work opportunities, which is especially important in remote rural areas, where buses, trains and even tarmac roads are non-existent.

"It is especially appropriate that I am cycling," said Tom.

"Because Transaid has a project in Malawi which helps people in remote villages to get emergency healthcare by ‘bicycle ambulance’ – a simple trailer which is made by local crafts people and fixed to the back of a bike.

"The coming months will be dedicated to getting fit for Cycle Malawi and fundraising for Transaid and your help and support the Gills fans may be able to provide to help me reach or exceed my target would be greatly appreciated."

If you'd like to support a fellow Gills fan and sponsor Tom in his venture, you can donate online at www.justgiving.com/TomandDavidcycleMalawi

For more information about Transaid, check out their website at www.transaid.org