Linlithgow man to cycle 300km in 30 days for NSPCC Scotland

David O’Rourke has been cycling for six years.

A Linlithgow man has pledged to cycle 300km in 30 days during lockdown to raise money for the NSPCC.

David O’Rourke, 47, said spending so much time at home during lockdown had made him think about those, especially children, for whom home is a difficult place to be.

He has so far raised £180 of his £250 JustGiving target.

David O'Rourke is cycling 300km in 30 days.

Mr O’Rourke, a team manager at IT firm Atos, started cycling six years ago for charity, and his challenges have included cycling from London to Paris.

He said: “When I look back at my childhood, I realise I was really lucky and that not everybody is as fortunate.

“There are kids who live in environments that aren’t very good, and the lockdown will be making life even harder for them, so I decided that I wanted to support the brilliant work of the NSPCC.”

David O'Rourke

During lockdown the NSPCC service Childline has heard from children whose parents have lost their jobs and are under financial pressure, as well as from young carers struggling to look after siblings while parents are sick with Covid-19.

Caroline Renton, Supporter Fundraising Manager for NSPCC Scotland, said: “We’re very grateful to David, as we are to all of those who are raising funds for us during this difficult period, especially when so many of the big fundraising challenges have

been cancelled or postponed.

“Throughout the public health crisis, we have been there for children and we continue to be so. Our Helpline experts are there to take calls from any adults concerned about a child and our Childline counsellors are there for children, struggling with a range of issues, including their mental health, family relationships and experiencing abuse.

“Our counsellors are there to listen to them, provide support and guide them to make decisions that are right for them.

“I’d encourage anyone who would like to support us to take inspiration from David and sign up for one of our challenges or come up with a fundraising idea of your own.”