Teen cyclist raises £20k in three years for cancer charity

A prolific teenage fund-raising cyclist has been recognised for her efforts by Cancer Research UK, reports the Dumfries and Galloway Standard.

Billie Jean Sedgwick from Annan in south west Scotland received a UK Young Volunteer of the Year commendation via the charity’s annual Flame of Hope Awards last week.

The commendation serves as recognition for the 14-year-old’s efforts which have seen her raise almost £20,000 in just three years by undertaking sponsored bike rides along with her dad Ed, a former racer.

Billie told the Standard: “It is really great to get this award. I’ve enjoyed raising a lot of money for Cancer Research UK, even when I’ve been cold and wet and tired! I have just completed another big cycle of more than 100 miles so this award is really special.

“It shows that Cancer Research UK cares about the people who are raising money for their work. I’m already looking forward to my next big event and hope to raise a lot more money.”

The charity’s chief executive said: “Our Flame of Hope Awards give us the opportunity to celebrate and say thank you to the enormously generous volunteers and supporters like Billie for the fantastic work they do.”

Billie started fund-raising aged 11, when she aimed to raise £1,000 having been inspired by her grandmother’s battle against cancer. She has completed the Hadrian’s Cycleway challenge twice, ridden from Land’s End to John O’Groats, and this year undertaken what will be the annual 100-mile 'Billie's Ride of Hope' from Tynemouth to Annan.

You can still donate to Billie via www.justgiving.com/rideofhope2011.