A company director has set off on an epic cycle across Europe in memory of his late mother and to raise awareness of a rare disease affecting his brother-in-law.

Andrew Gaskins, 50, of Byers Green, near Spennymoor, is cycling 1,900 miles, from his home to Santiago de Compostela in North West Spain.

He said: “ I always had it in my head to cycle to Spain. I'm 50 years old now and thought well ‘if I don't do it now when will I ever do it?”

The Northern Echo: Andrew Gaskins of Byers Green, is cycling to Spain Andrew Gaskins of Byers Green, is cycling to Spain

“I am raising as much as possible at the same time two charities - Niemann Pick UK and Marie Curie.

Marie Curie cared for Mr Gaskin’s mum Doreen, during her final days in Bishop Auckland.

He added: “My brother-in-law Jonathan Wright, 38, has suffered from Niemann Pick Type C since he was a teenager, and I want to raise funds and awareness for this little-known rare disease.

“Niemann Pick is a rare inherited disease that affects the body's ability to metabolise fat (cholesterol and lipids) within cells.

“These cells malfunction and, over time, die. Niemann Pick Disease can affect the brain, nerves, liver, spleen, bone marrow and, in severe cases, lungs. The money raised will help them carry on their fantastic work.”

The Northern Echo: Jonathan Wright, who has Niemann Pick Type C Jonathan Wright, who has Niemann Pick Type C

Mr Gaskins, has done a few coast-to-coast cycles, but this is ‘by far the longest' he has ever attempted.

Having set off on Saturday, he is cycling an average of 70 miles a day – and is expected to arrive at Dover on Wednesday.

Cycling alone, he is following bike routes and back roads through France to the Spanish Border.

The Northern Echo: Andrew Gaskins in LincolnAndrew Gaskins in Lincoln

His wife, Dawn, who has given the venture her full backing will be flying to Bordeaux to spend some with him.

He will then be following the Camino de Santiago (The way of St James), an ancient Pilgrim route across the North of Spain.

Mr Gaskins, is a director of the Peterlee-based steel fabricator D & S Services, hopes to reach his destination by September 2.

He has already raised nearly £1,800 for his chosen charities.

To sponsor Mr Gaskins click here.

The Northern Echo: Andrew Gaskins sets off from his home in Byers Green Andrew Gaskins sets off from his home in Byers Green

 

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