Cyclist steps up training for nationwide cathedral-to-cathedral bid

Training has been increased dramatically by Gary Bluett, the man who is planning to be the first person ever to cycle to every Anglican cathedral in England, Wales and Scotland.

Mr Bluett is a 48-year-old farm foreman more used to milking cows than cycling. Now his training has been enhanced by a local health and fitness centre offering to assign a personal trainer to him.

"It really has been a great boost to my preparation having a personal trainer," said Mr Bluett. "Cat Lawford from Gym & Tonic, based in Hay-on-Wye, about ten miles from my home in Herefordshire, has given me a range of exercises to complement the cycling I am doing. She also calculated I was a bit overweight but that won't be for long on this regime!"

Gym & Tonic are just one of the sponsors helping Mr Bluett to raise money for MacMillan Cancer Support and his local parish church in Letton.

He will be cycling to 56 Cathedrals on the British mainland and the Isle of Man. He is planning to cycle the 2,600 miles in 25 consecutive days in May and June this year.

"I am a bit of an expert now on things like Darlows Manoeuvres and Bent over Rows," said Mr Bluett, "but I need all the help I can get. Did you know that a 12 stone individual cycling at an average speed of 10 mph for eight hours, on the flat, will burn approximately 5,000 calories?"

Mr Bluett also has a website up and running where supporters can offer sponsorship and read the details of his trip, his training programme and why he is doing it.

Letton and its church are mentioned in the Domesday Book, although a building has been on the site since Saxon times. It has expanded over the years and has had a variety of colourful patrons during its history. Currently, it needs extensive remedial work in the building, which not only serves as a worship centre, but hosts an increasing number of social events.