Furloughed worker leaves Northampton behind to set off on 2,000-mile charity cycle...with his adorable puppy Vinnie

A Northampton man furloughed from his job has set off on a 2,000-mile cycling challenge for charity accompanied by his adorable six-month-old Jack Russell puppy, Vinnie.

Chris Canham and Vinnie the dog are fundraising for Teenage Cancer Trust, the only UK charity dedicated to providing specialist nursing and emotional support for young people with cancer.

Chris and Vinnie began their challenge on July 28 and are livestreaming highlights of their journey on Facebook. Not only are they travelling 2,000 miles by bike and trailer, but will also be climbing the three peaks together: Ben Nevis, Snowdon and Scafell Pike.

Chris was inspired to support Teenage Cancer Trust after the death of a friend’s daughter, who was supported by the charity during her treatment. Over the years he has taken on two other impressive challenges for Teenage Cancer Trust: the Snowdonia Marathon and a 24-hour 100-mile run.

So far, the fundraising duo have made an impressive £3,100 for Teenage Cancer Trust and have 220 members of their Facebook group.

Chris said: “After I found out my furlough leave had been extended, I thought ‘you know what, let’s just go!’ – and so we did! With no training and very little planning we’ve already managed to get 830 miles and have climbed Ben Nevis, our next peak is Snowdon on 22nd August.

“It’s been fantastic so far and support is growing strongly. Vinnie is adored by everyone, and we get a chance to talk to so many people along the way about Teenage Cancer Trust and the importance of the work they do.”

Heather Bowen, Teenage Cancer Trust Senior Relationship Manager, said: “We’re so grateful to Chris and his pup Vinnie for taking on this incredibly tough challenge! It’s amazing to see how the support for them is snowballing, and we would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who’s already donated.

“This support has come at a vital time for Teenage Cancer Trust. Due to the coronavirus crisis we’ve had to cancel or postpone many of our 2020 fundraising events and are expecting to see our income halve this year. It’s thanks to wonderful individuals like Chris that we’re able to continue delivering our life-changing support to young people with cancer.”

To support Chris and Vinnie’s 2,000-mile challenge, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/chrisandvinnie