Preparing for pilgrimage

For most people, their 70th birthday would be a time to start winding down.

But one Southwell town councillor has decided he wants to do something a little more exciting — so he is taking on a 500- kilometre bike ride.

Mr Roger Dobson, of Newark Road, is aiming to cycle along the Pilgrim Route, from the French border to Santiago de Compostela, Spain.

He is due to set off on September 14 and finish on September 26.

The challenge will raise money for Time Travelling at Southwell Minster, which helps to teach children about religion.

Mr Dobson said: “For centuries this has been the big pilgrimage to do. The church has contributed a lot to Southwell over the years and this gives something back.”

Mr Dobson is no stranger to challenges, having completed the Pennine Way and cycled up Mount Ventoux in 2009, one of the Tour de France’s toughest climbs.

He is doing 80km training rides in preparation for the challenge.

The full length of the pilgrimage is 842km but, by avoiding detours to cities along the route, Mr Dobson has reduced it.

He will be joined by a friend, Mr Trevor King, who lives in France.