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Penny Farthing challenge raises almost £3,000 for Ormiston Families

A Suffolk dad has crossed the finish line of a 257-mile fundraiser for Ormiston Families – on his penny farthing.

Ben Clowes, a cameraman from Bardwell, Suffolk, took on the famous ‘Wolf Way’ cycling route on his penny farthing to raise money for our vital support services.

Sitting 1.5 metres above the ground, Ben tackled the heat, challenging off-road conditions and steep hills before finishing the route on his fifth day of cycling.

After completing the challenge, Ben said:

“What was amazing going round, especially when I was finding things tough, was there were constant good wishes from people that spurred me on.

“People were so positive and I feel so fortunate to have had so many make donations as well.

“My wife was also an amazing support, looking after the children and backing me up with supplies.

“The main thing that I was really nervous about before setting off was that half of the route is off-road – that was tough and meant I fell off a lot!”

On others taking on the Wolf Way route on a penny farthing, Ben added:

“I’d say give it a go and see if you can beat my time! It’s brilliant fun.”

Kate Higgs, Director of Income Generation at Ormiston Families, said:

“We couldn’t be prouder of Ben for completing this huge challenge. We love it when fundraisers do something different for us and Ben has certainly done that!

“Ben’s efforts have raised a fantastic amount that will go towards our work supporting children and families in the region.”

You can still donate to Ben’s JustGiving page by visiting:

www.justgiving.com/page/farthingabout