Salvation Army benefits from Peter’s epic charity challenge

For more than 150 years, The Salvation Army has supported people experiencing homelessness.

Now, the church and charity is set to get a helping hand to continue this vital work thanks to Peter Langford, an 89-year-old man, who could become the oldest person to cross the length of Britain on a bicycle when he sets off on an epic trip of more than 1,000 miles from Land’s End to John O’Groats next week. Peter will be raising money for The Salvation Army and Access Community Trust.

Peter, from Beccles in Suffolk, explained why he is so passionate about supporting The Salvation Army’s work to tackle homelessness.

He said: “I am aware of my good fortune in having a home to live in. It makes me very aware of people who are homeless and I pray for them almost everyday. I am attempting this ride for two excellent homelessness charities and hope to raise £50,000. The Salvation Army has a long record of helping people who are homeless and I have always had admiration for them.”

The self-funded trip will be Peter’s fourth between the iconic locations. He’s already raised nearly £60,000 since his first attempt at the tender age of just 75 and he’ll be setting out just a few days after he turns 90.

Although he has been training extensively for the challenge, Peter admitted to feeling apprehensive.

He said: “I’ve already cycled 3,500 miles this year in all weathers. I have arthritis in my knees but there is no walking involved on a bike. I’ll be glad to get Devon and Cornwall out of the way and to see Britain from one end to the other is absolutely wonderful – we are lucky to live on such a fantastic island.”

Angela Carlucci, Salvation Army Community and Events Team Manager, paid tribute to Peter and said the money he raises will make a significant difference to people’s lives.

She said: “The pandemic and cost of living crisis has led to an increase in homelessness and many charities are struggling to meet demand. The selfless acts of people like Peter are vital to The Salvation Army - we'll be cheering him on all the way.”

To sponsor Peter please visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/peterlangford