A 78-year-old cyclist will brave a journey from Bishop’s Castle to the top of Snowdon to raise cash for vital improvements at SpArC Theatre - in his wife's memory.
Dave Luckhurst, from Bishop’s Castle, will set off on September 5 after taking part in the Michaelmas Fair parade.
He plans to complete the journey over four to five days, camping along the route and towing a single-wheeled trailer without support.
The challenge is in support of a £120,000 fundraising campaign for improvements at SpArC Theatre.
Ten years ago, Mr Luckhurst raised more than £1,600 through a similar ride to support the centre when it was at risk of closure.
This year, he hopes to raise around £2,000 to help the theatre upgrade its sound and lighting systems and install more accessible seating.
Mr Luckhurst said: "My reasons for setting myself this challenge are twofold.
"First, it is exactly ten years since I completed a similar sponsored ride to the summit of Snowdon for the Save the SpArC campaign, when the centre was threatened with closure, raising more than £1,600.
"Secondly, it marks the first anniversary of the passing of my wife, Julie Luckhurst, who many local people will remember from Harvest Whole Foods and for her work teaching local children with dyslexia.
"Together we were regular attendees at SpArC's fantastic programme of events, and Julie would have wanted that success to continue.
"I would like to complete this challenge in her memory."
Fiona Boak, chair of the SpArC charity, who will join Mr Luckhurst for the first leg of the journey, said: "We are so grateful to Dave for undertaking this amazing effort once again to raise money for SpArC and encourage as many people as possible to support him.
"Every contribution, large or small, will help us reach our target and safeguard the future of the theatre."
SpArC Theatre plays a vital role in the cultural life of Bishop's Castle and South West Shropshire, hosting theatre, music, cinema, exhibitions, classes, workshops and community events.
It also offers volunteering opportunities and supports youth engagement.
Donations to support Mr Luckhurst’s challenge can be made via the fundraising page at zeffy.com/en-GB/donation-form/sparc-2-snowdon-summit-theatre-improvements-fund-raising.
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