Norfolk man with leukaemia cycles UK coast on Chopper bike
A man with a brave spirit and an even braver bike is cycling around the UK coast, despite being diagnosed with Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia in 2016. Tim Bright, a 57-year-old farm manager from Norfolk, is on a mission to show that life goes on, no matter how ill you are. And what a bike he's riding! A Raleigh Chopper, a 1970s classic with a distinctive long banana seat, raised handlebars, and outsized rear wheel. It's a real talking point, and people are coming up to Tim to share their own stories of having owned one when they were younger.
But it's not all smooth sailing for Tim. The Chopper has struggled with the demands of the journey, requiring repeated repairs along the way, including rewelding and wheel rebuilds. Tim's own health has also been a challenge, with occasional trips to hospitals. Despite these obstacles, Tim has already completed the east and south coast, as well as Wales and north west England. He set off travelling clockwise from Cromer and has been tracking his journey.
One of the most memorable moments for Tim was a rain-soaked stretch in Cornwall. He couldn't see out of his glasses and was soaked through, but he felt so alive. It was incredible. Tim is undertaking the trip with his wife, Sue, an NHS worker, who is driving in a support car. They have taken unpaid leave and are funding the trip themselves to raise money for Cancer Research UK. So far, they have raised more than £10,000.
The Chopper, with its distinctive design, was first launched by Nottingham firm Raleigh in 1969. The design was influenced by 'chopped' motorcycles, modified vehicles popularised by films like The Wild One and Easy Rider. More than one million were sold, and the bicycle has become one of the most enduring cultural symbols of the 1970s.
Tim's journey is a testament to his resilience and determination. It's a reminder that we should never underestimate the power of the human spirit. And it's a great example of how a classic design can still be relevant and inspiring today. So, if you see Tim and his Chopper on your travels, give him a wave and a smile. He's doing something truly remarkable.
