Local man completes 24-hour cycle around Beacon Park in memory of his dad
Local man, Sam Coxon, has completed a 24-hour non-stop cycle around Beacon Park in memory of his late father, who was cared for at St Giles Hospice.
Starting at 8.50am on Friday 15th August, Sam rode through the night, braving fatigue, darkness, and the warm weather, completing lap after lap of Beacon Park for a full 24 hours – finishing at 8.50am on Saturday 16th August to cheers from friends, family, and local supporters.
Sam’s challenge wasn’t just a personal tribute to his dad, but also a fundraiser for St Giles Hospice, a charity close to his heart. So far, the ride has raised over £2,000 , with donations still coming in.
“I’m raising money for St Giles Hospice because they played such an important role in my dad’s final days. He was cared for there at the end of his life in 2023, and now I want to do something every year to give back and support St Giles in any way I can.”
He added that the mental challenge of cycling in loops for 24 hours was unlike anything he’d faced before.
“Riding in circles for 24 hours around the same area is mentally tough – it’s not like riding from point A to B. My longest ride before this was 180 miles, but this was a different kind of challenge.
“Doing it in memory of my dad made it all the more meaningful. I think he’d be proud to see me trying to help St Giles and other people going through what we went through. I’d like to think he’s looking down on me, giving me a big thumbs up.
“The truth is, none of us knows if or when we might need St Giles. They helped our family directly, which is why I’m so passionate about raising money for them and making sure they can keep doing what they do best.”
Sam Colclough, Senior Events Officer at St Giles Hospice, said “We are incredibly touched by Sam’s continued dedication to fundraising for St Giles. This isn’t his first challenge for us, and we’re so proud of everything he’s accomplished. Cycling non-stop for 24 hours is no small feat – especially in the heat we experienced this weekend.
“The funds Sam raised will help us continue to care for local people, and their loved ones, living with a terminal illness.”
Throughout the 24 hours, passersby stopped to cheer Sam on, offer snacks, and even ride a few support laps alongside him.
Find out more about how you can support St Giles by visiting: www.stgileshospice.com
