A YOUNG man from Great Sutton has raised  more than £1,000 for Chester-based children’s charity, Children Today in an epic cycling challenge.

24-year-old Loyd Wildridge, who suffered brain damage as an infant, leaving him with severe additional needs, took on a ’30 for 30 Challenge’ to commemorate the charity’s 30th anniversary.

Children Today previously supported Loyd with an adapted trike following extensive leg surgery in 2016 to help with his physio and recovery.

The trike has also become a symbol of empowerment and freedom, allowing Loyd to engage in activities that promote strength and well-being.

Loyd set out to raise £300 by completing 30 laps in 30 days on his specially adapted trike and not only exceeded the target of 30 laps, completing 41 laps in total, but also more than trebled his initial fundraising target.

Hi mum, Helen Dalby-Wildridge, said: “Seeing how far he’s come today, it’s hard to imagine that when Loyd came out of his coma aged six, he was unable to walk, talk or sit up. It’s nothing short of miraculous.

“Loyd doesn’t let the barriers he faces on a daily basis stand in his way and always pushes himself to the limit with a smile on his face – mostly! He’s got such a good sense of humour and loves to help others. We couldn’t be prouder of him!”

This is Loyd’s fourth fundraising challenge in aid of Children Today in as many years bringing the total amount he has raised for the charity to over £5000.

He also regularly takes part in volunteering in the community including his beloved litter-picking walks with the Ellesmere Port Wombles.

Emma Prescott, charity director at Children Today, said: “Loyd is the epitome of strength and resilience. His indomitable spirit and unwavering determination to conquer his own obstacles and assist others in similar situations is truly inspiring.

“We are incredibly grateful to Loyd and his family for their continued support for Children Today and feel honoured to class him part of the Children Today family. His efforts never cease to amaze us.”

Children Today is encouraging others to take on their very own ‘30 for 30 Challenge’ – a fundraising campaign inviting individuals to take on a fundraising challenge based on the number 30 – to help raise funds for disabled children and young adults, like Loyd.