Grandad cycling 250 miles for baby loss charity

A grandfather is cycling 400km (250 miles) in 24 hours to help people who have experienced child loss.

Kevan Collins, 62, from Diss in Norfolk, embarked on the challenge to raise money for Angels and Rainbows, a Suffolk-based pregnancy and baby loss support group.

Mr Collins set off on Saturday to ride from Diss to London, riding on to Dunwich Beach in Suffolk through the night, and back to Diss.

"I have recently been made a grandfather to young Henry who spent 10 days on life-support, and I dread to think what it would have felt like [to lose him]," he said.

Mr Collins took up cycling during the Covid-19 pandemic.

During the challenge he planned to ride a "normal" 11-speed bike with no power-assistance.

"When I came up with this idea back in February it was to be for an eye charity because I nearly lost my sight," he said, speaking to the BBC while catching a break in Great Dunmow, Essex.

"But, I met up with Angels and Rainbows through friends... and I thought, you know what, I have to do this for them."

The charity, based in Lowestoft, provides counselling and support to those affected by pregnancy or baby loss.

Mr Collins said his goal was to raise £1,500 so those in need of support did not have to face financial barriers during that difficult time.

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