Charity cyclist 'blown away' by support after bike stolen in Northampton as Luton Town makes pledge
A charity cyclist whose bicycle was stolen during a stop in Northampton says he has been "blown away" by the support he has received, with Luton Town pledging to help him continue his challenge.
Mark Crowther, 60, was cycling to Huddersfield as part of his Every Mind Matters fundraising campaign when his bike disappeared during a Northampton coffee shop stop.
The Luton Town supporter had completed 41 miles after setting off from Kenilworth Road and planned to reach Leicester before continuing to Huddersfield the following day.
His journey was cut short by the theft, but the football club has since promised to help him reach his destination and make up the missed cycling miles.
In a message shared with supporters, Luton Town said: "Mark, we're incredibly proud of you and we're all right behind you! We'll make sure you get to Huddersfield, and those missed miles will be made up as you continue your amazing challenge."
Speaking to Andy Collins on BBC Three Counties Radio, Mr Crowther said he had been "blown away" by the response from the club and fellow supporters.
"Everyone has been so kind," he said.
The cyclist had initially described himself as "absolutely gutted" after discovering his bicycle had vanished during a brief stop.
"I left the bike for about a minute, went to the toilet, and when I came back it was stolen," he said.
"It's heart-breaking. I do this to follow my passion and go and see Luton away, and to raise awareness for mental health. It's awful."
Mr Crowther had hoped to cycle 70 miles to Leicester on the first day and another 100 miles to Huddersfield on the second.
His latest challenge involves cycling to Luton Town's away fixtures during the League One season, following previous efforts covering the Championship and Premier League.
He is raising awareness and donations for The OLLIE Foundation, Alzheimer's Society, Bedford MS Therapy Centre and Mind BLMK.
Despite the setback, Mr Crowther remains determined to continue and has asked people to share a photograph of his stolen bike in the hope of recovering it.
He also thanked supporters for their donations and encouragement.