Twenty two Evertonians will cycle more than 240 miles this weekend in memory of midfielder Gary Speed to raise funds for Everton in the Community’s mental health campaign, The People’s Place.
Backed and endorsed by Gary’s parents Carol and Roger, The Speed Cycle will see the group trek between all of the Wales international’s former clubs, setting off from Newcastle United in the early hours of Saturday 1 June and heading to Elland Road, home of Leeds United.
Sunday 2 June will then see the cyclists take on the hills of Yorkshire and Lancashire as they travel to Sheffield United and Bolton Wanderers before the final leg brings them back to Goodison Park on Sunday evening.
The target for The Speed Cycle has been set at £65,000 – representing the 65 times boyhood Blue Speed played for Everton during a glittering playing career.
The first donation towards that fundraising target has already been made by Gary’s parents, Roger and Carol, from the Gary Speed Foundation - a charity that was founded in Gary’s memory following his tragic suicide in 2011.
All money raised from The Speed Cycle will go towards helping Everton in the Community reach its £1million fundraising target to build The People’s Place - a purpose-built mental health facility close to Goodison Park that will support anyone in times of need.
For more information on The People’s Place visit www.peoplesplace.net.