Head chef Matt Cripps proved he can handle the heat in the kitchen and on two wheels after completing a 60-mile charity cycle ride in scorching temperatures to raise money for Broughton House Veteran Care Village, where he works.
Matt, 46, took part in the Manchester-Blackpool Bike Ride and his efforts have so far raised more than £700 for the Salford care home.
With temperatures reaching 34C, Matt cycled from MediaCityUK in Salford Quays to Blackpool’s South Promenade in six-and-a-half hours.
Matt, who lives in Denton, Tameside, devised a six-week training programme in preparation for the ride, including swimming, cycling, treadmill and rowing machine sessions, dips in his outdoor ice bath and a high-protein diet.
He said:
“The training really helped, but it felt like I’d hit a brick wall around Preston. I pushed myself and cracked on because I was determined to see it through to the very end for such a great cause.
“I did get sunburnt, but had an ice bath when I arrived home, which helped me cool down and recover.”
After experiencing the community atmosphere at Broughton House while working there on a temporary basis, Matt joined permanently earlier this year.
He said the bike ride was his way of showing his appreciation for the veterans.
“They’re heroes, but they’ve done enough. It’s our turn to give something back,” he said.
“The challenge meant a lot to me because I was in the RAF Cadets as a teenager. I signed up to do basic training after leaving school, but the kitchen was my true calling.
“While I may have opted for a career in food instead, it feels like I’ve come full circle by working to serve the veterans at Broughton House.
“Being here gives you a lot of perspective. I talk to our residents all the time and hear their stories. I’ve been so inspired by them and am passionate about the place. The ride felt like the least I could do to show support for them.
“It’s not just the veterans at Broughton House that we help. We also work with veterans in the community through our Armed Forces Support Hub, signposting them to key services, combatting isolation and much more.”
Karen Miller, chief executive of Broughton House, said:
“Matt’s dedication to raising funds for our veterans epitomises the camaraderie and community spirit that Broughton House is well-known for.
“We’re all incredibly proud of Matt for his fantastic achievement, and the charity will ensure that monies raised will contribute to the ongoing care and support of our veterans, both in the home and within our local community.”
Donations to Matt’s fundraising page can be made via https://www.justgiving.com/page/matthew-cripps-1
