A devoted fundraiser who cycled from Land’s End to John O’Groats in 1985 to help fund the formation of Ashgate Hospice will get back on her bike once again – almost 40 years later.  

Jayne Lindley will peddle 515km between London and Paris between 5th and 8th June in an effort to raise funds towards the charity’s care.  

The 54-year-old, from Chesterfield, will be riding in memory of her mother, Alethea Lindley, who worked as a manager at the hospice for 14 years. 

She received end of life care herself at the hospice until her death from cancer 19 years ago, aged 56. 

The challenge will be particularly testing for Jayne after recovering from injuries when she was hit by a car, and then going over the handlebars of her bike years later.  

She also has a chronic illness, which zaps her of energy.

 Jayne said: “This will be 39 years since my first – and only – distance cycle challenge with my friend Sally; I was only 16 and we were completely unsupported.  

“We were fundraising for the hospice before it opened in 1988; many years later it will seem like a challenge of Olympic proportions. 

“Since then, I’ve been hit by a car while skiing in Germany in 1993, and then hospitalised after crashing headfirst over the handlebars six years later. Quite frankly I should not be allowed out without supervision! 

“The ride is for our loved ones past, present and future who will or have needed hospice support in their darkest hour to lighten the load.” 

Jayne’s mother Alethea was appointed hospice manager in 1991 soon after the site opened in Old Brampton. 

She was involved in the launch of an appeal to raise funds for a new extension, which included the site’s day centre. 

The unit, which continues to provide palliative care services for patients, was opened by Prince Edward in 2005, six months after Alethea died. 

Jayne said she hopes to raise £1,100 – the same amount she managed to raise in 1985, and also the miles she ended up cycling after getting lost. 

“The hospice gave my mum immense pride being part of such a vital service for North Derbyshire,” added Jayne, who has been in the RAF for 28 years. 

“I remember our Christmas days only started after Mum had been into the hospice to visit staff and patients. She was passionate about her work right until the end. 

“We have so many memories of happy times of being at the hospice before mum was ill, and then the comfort of knowing she was in safe hands to ease her pain when she needed the care herself.” 

Jayne, who has been sponsored by Hadfields Chartered Certified Accountants, has also been supported by JE James Cycles, which also lent her a bike for her cycle challenge in 1985.  

The Chesterfield shop has donated a bike which she will raffle off to help her reach her fundraising target.  

The Cock and Magpie pub in Old Whittington has also sponsored her.

‘Preparation’

Jayne added: “Unfortunately I haven’t done much preparation. It will be a case of mind over matter, boosted by trying to make a small difference by raising funds for Ashgate.  

“A mixture of old injuries after being hit by a car and going headfirst off the bike, while recently being diagnosed with chronic conditions will make it my toughest ride yet.  

“However, I have braved the potholes of the Peak District and recently managed 47 miles and climbed over 3000ft, which is more than three times the height of the Eiffel Tower. I just need to double that and do it four days on the trot!” 

Anyone who would like to make a donation to Jayne’s fundraiser can do so on her JustGiving page. 

Find out more about how you can fundraise for Ashgate Hospice.