Leeds Dad to Cycle from Land’s End to John O’Groats to Raise Money for Local Children’s Charity

Leeds dad, Ben Milner, will be cycling the length of the UK in September to raise money for local charity, SNAPS, which provides vital support for his eight-year-old son, Phoenix, who has cerebral palsy. 

Ben will be completing the mammoth 980-mile journey with his friend Paul Manship, and is hoping to raise £15,000 for SNAPS (Special Needs and Parent Support), which provides support services for children with additional needs of all kinds, and their families.

Phoenix was born 10 weeks prematurely in 2016 and diagnosed with cerebral palsy. His parents, Ben and Lora, were told about the services SNAPs provided when Phoenix was three, and he started going there for regular rebound therapy and hydrotherapy sessions.  He also attends every Saturday to spend time with other children in similar situations, a highlight of his week.   

Estate Agents Manning Stainton has sponsored the event shirts the pair will wear throughout their journey and donated £500. 

Speaking about the cycle ride, Ben said: “My journey into the world of SNAPS began when my first-born son was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, a moment that shook our world and filled it with uncertainty and a fear for the future. But it was also a moment that would introduce us to the incredible SNAPS community, a beacon of light in our time of need.

“SNAPS stands as a pillar of strength, compassion, and unwavering support for children with special needs and their families. They provide invaluable services, from physiotherapy sessions and educational resources to a network of parents who understand the unique challenges we face.

“Through the dedication of SNAPS, my son Phoenix, has made remarkable strides in his journey towards a brighter, more inclusive future. Their tireless commitment to helping children like him live their best lives has transformed our family’s outlook and given us hope where we once saw only obstacles. If I can raise £15,000 for the charity, it will cover the costs of them providing their services for a month.” 

Mark Manning, managing director of Manning Stainton, added: “What Ben and Paul are doing is remarkable, and we’re delighted to be their sponsor. SNAPS is an amazing charity that’s completely self-funded, and it provides services that help transform children’s lives, which is why we are a business hero for the charity and provide year-round support to them. If you can support Ben and Paul by sponsoring them, please do, as every penny they raise will directly impact the lives of children who need additional support.”  

Ben and Paul will be setting off on their journey on the 7 September and finishing it nine days later at John O’Groats, meaning they’ll ride over 100 miles every day. To find out more about Ben’s story, or to sponsor him, please visit SNAPS Yorkshire: Ben & Paul’s Ride Across Britain 2024 (enthuse.com). For further information about Manning Stainton, visit www.manningstainton.co.uk.

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