Cycling siblings from Wigan Borough are hoping to inspire classmates after completing an amazing two-wheel challenge.
This summer, 10-year-old Isabelle, and seven-year-old Lucas pedalled their way through the 100 Mile Cycle Challenge, raising £580 for local community groups.
The brother and sister partnership are backing up their success by taking part in Cycle to School Week, encouraging young people across the borough to join in.
Mum, Emma Wetherby said: “They both inspire me every day with their enthusiasm, energy and determination.
“It was a fantastic adventure and they were really excited to finish their challenge.”
Isabelle and Lucas cycled a total of 119 miles each, notching up 22 hours throughout August and were recognised by their school – Winstanley Community Primary School– with a Good Citizen Award.
The pair are keen to spread the word about Cycle to School Week (October 3 to 7) having pledged to take part every day.
Isabelle said: “I loved going on the bike rides and being out in the fresh air in the morning. I also loved cycling past Uncles Joe’s, and the bread factory because they smelt so good!”
One of Lucas’ favourite parts was getting up close to nature. He said: “It was amazing to see a fox, a deer and some herons during our bikes rides.”
They travelled through the borough on the Bee Network cycle paths and the local canal network, including Top Lock, Pennington Flash, Three Sisters, Viridor Wood, Mesnes Park and Alexandra Park.
The pair raised £580 which has been donated to local organisations that are close to their hearts including St Cuthberts under 7s rugby team, the Invictus Triathlon Junior Club, Winstanley Community Primary School and Wellspring at St Pauls Parish Hall.
St Cuthberts are organising a social event with their donation. The Invictus Triathlon Junior Club are planning to invest it in new kit. Winstanley Community Primary School will be expanding their library with new children’s books. Finally, Wellspring at St Pauls Parish Hall who are taking 30 children to a pantomime, and providing a hot meal for 60 local people.
Councillor Paul Prescott, Wigan Council’s cabinet portfolio holder for environment, said: “A massive congratulations to Isabelle and Lucas.
“This is an amazing thing to have done during their summer holidays, exploring the borough by bike and raising money for local groups on their way.
“As a council, we are investing in safe and attractive routes to make it easier for people to choose to hop on their bike. In recent years, cycle routes have been completed and improved on Smithy Brook Road, Victoria Street, the Road to Wigan Pier, and of course the off-road route from Leigh to Pennington Flash which was completed earlier this year.
“We’re also working with local schools to help children feel more confident on their bikes, with free Dr Bike sessions, which have seen 471 bikes repaired for free in just the last five months.
“The Bikeability Balance programme launched in September and has seen more than 1,000 reception and year one pupils signed up already.
“I’ve definitely been inspired by Isabelle and Lucas, and I’d like to say a huge well done to them again!”
