A SUREGON has embarked upon an arduous bike ride challenge in aid of his inspirational colleagues and patients.

James Melling, who works at Warrington Hospital, began a gruelling 1,666km, or 1,035-mile, cycle on Monday in support of Warrington and Halton Hospitals Charity (WHH Charity).

The consultant general and colorectal surgeon, who lives in Norley, took on the event to give back to his fellow colleagues and patients.

He says they have both been ‘wonderful’ during difficult circumstances throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

“It has been so inspirational to see how every member of staff in the hospital has given so much extra in terms of time worked, but also emotionally without any question as to the personal sacrifice,” James said.

“The patients we treat have also given so much, in particular the non-Covid patients, who have been so understanding and kind when faced with repeated cancellations of appointments and operations.

Surgeon James Melling has begun a gruelling 1,000-mile cycle for his inspirational colleagues and patients at Warrington Hospital

Surgeon James Melling has begun a gruelling 1,000-mile cycle for his inspirational colleagues and patients at Warrington Hospital

“I have not heard a single complaint from a patient in this regard, which is incredible, and the only response has always been ‘I know there are those more important than me’.

“Given the frustration that people must feel in these circumstances, to be thinking of other patients is remarkable, and raising money to help WHH Charity is a small way of me expressing my admiration and thanks.”

The epic, 12-day bike ride began in Land’s End – the southernmost point of mainland Britain – and is due to end in John o’Groats in the far north of Scotland on August 6, with daily stops along the way in order to rest.

Over the course of the journey, James will also have to battle 23,015m of ascent, which is the equivalent of going up Mount Everest 2.6 times from sea level.

He will not be riding alone however, as he will be joined by two of his university friends – Martin Kelly and Jim Kidston.

The group will need to log more than 100km, or 62 miles, a day in order to finish the challenge in the intended time.

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“From a personal point of view, it was initially planned as a way to catch up with old friends whom I could no longer visit during lockdown, as well as wanting to use the lockdown to get fit rather than stewing in the house all day,” James added.

“Cycling became a vital way of trying to relax and turn off away from work, which was obviously pretty busy and challenging during the peak Covid times.”

Helen Higginson, fundraising manager for WHH Charity, commented: “As a charity, we are continually overwhelmed by people who are willing to go that extra mile for others.

“We all wish to acknowledge James and his university friends, who have set out on this amazing personal challenge to raise funds for our charity so we may continue to provide additional comforts, care and experiences for our staff, patients and their families.

“Please offer your support to them on their journey.”

You can sponsor James by visiting justgiving.com/fundraising/james-melling4 and follow his journey via WHH Charity’s Facebook and Twitter pages.