Marathon cycle ride aids anti-bullying campaign

Gary Mullins, 55, cycled from London to Paris in just three days to raise money for Beat The Bullies.

The charity, which helps to educate secondary school children about bullying awareness and prevention, was discovered by Mr Mullins, who works for Action Coach, after he shared an office building with them.

His cycle ride, which took place between July 1 and July 3, has raised more than £1,000.

Gary Mullins said: ‘As part of the work we do, we choose a charity and coach them for free.

‘We chose Beat The Bullies because they hold very similar family values to us, and they’re very passionate about what they do – we all trained together which was great.

‘When my son was bullied at school nobody took responsibility, so I’m a big advocate of the work they do.

‘Travelling through France the traffic was quite tricky due to Euro 2016, but you meet so many incredible people along the way.

‘I want to do something like this again next year, and cycle from London to Paris again when I’m 60, just to prove that age isn’t necessarily a physical barrier.’

Emma Hine, chief executive officer at Beat The Bullies, said: ‘When Gary contacted us to say he wanted to cycle from London to Paris, we were so excited.

‘What he has achieved for us is absolutely amazing.’