Two friends are embarking on a mammoth cycling challenge this summer to raise funds to support research into Parkinson’s disease.
Teacher Alice Collins and driving instructor Laura Nicholls will set off from the village of Mattishall, near Dereham, on July 23 and aim to arrive in Tenby on the South Wales coast four days later.
The cycle ride was inspired after Ms Collins' step-father Paul Robins was diagnosed with the condition.
The 26-year-old, who teaches PE at Fakenham High School, said: “Paul is always such an inspirational person and has shown so much courage after his diagnosis.
“The past year has been a rollercoaster of emotions for my family.
"Though the diagnosis is hard to take, Paul has taken it in his stride, like he does with everything.”
The friends first met aged five and started playing football together, a sport which later saw them play at a high level for Norwich City Academy squads and Wymondham Ladies team.
Both went to Northgate School in Dereham and Toftwood Junior School, where Mr Robins spent several years as a primary school teacher after spending 21 years in the RAF, rising to the rank of Wing Commander, where he was also one of the last Station Commanders at RAF Coltishall before it closed.
He also taught at Robert Kett Primary School in Wymondham.
Ms Collins has already organised fund-raising events, including a quiz night at Dereham Town Football Club that raised around £1,200 in aid of Parkinson’s UK.
Ms Nicholls, 25, said: “When Alice suggested I join her on the 400-mile ride, I thought, yes, let’s give it a go and raise as much money as we can for Parkinson’s UK.
“I’ve known Paul for as long as I can remember and taking on this challenge and raising money along the way is something I am incredibly proud to do.”
The pair will cover an average of 100 miles a day, setting off from Mattishall - where Mr Robins and his wife Stephanie live - finishing in Tenby, where he grew up as a child.
- Visit www.justgiving.com/team/norfolktotenby2026 to sponsor the pair.
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