Record-breaking cyclist Mark Beaumont goes extra mile for Mary’s Meals

British long-distance cyclist Mark Beaumont is lending his star pedal power to Mary’s Meals and encouraging people to get active in support of the school feeding charity’s work to feed hungry children in some of the world’s poorest countries.

Mark, the fastest person to ever ride around the world, is asking people to take part in the fundraiser Miles For Mary’s Meals, by setting themselves a fun, exercise-based challenge. 

Pictured before lockdown with his trusty wheels near his home in Edinburgh, Mark is helping the charity launch the campaign today. He currently holds the world record for cycling 18,000 miles around the world in less than 79 days but suggests that people do not need to set themselves such ambitious goals to make a difference.

He said: “Last year was very difficult for all of us but at the start of a new year what better way to begin 2021 than by taking on a new challenge and at the same time fundraising to help others. 

“Whether, like me, you try a cycling challenge, go jogging around your neighbourhood, or lace up your boots and go walking, there are so many ways that you can get involved with Miles For Mary’s Meals. It’s a fantastic way to get more active and also help feed hungry children in the world’s poorest communities.”

And thanks to Double The Love, donations made will go twice as far. Give until 31 January 2021, and the UK government with match public donations to the charity, up to £2 million. 

Funds raised will allow Mary’s Meals to reach hungry children in Bong County, Liberia, with a life-changing meal at school. In Liberia, where 64 per cent of girls are out of school, this work is critical and will enable many more to receive an education.

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Minister, Wendy Morton, said: “I am proud the government is supporting Mary’s Meals’ Double the Love campaign by matching the public’s generous donations and hope many people will take up the Miles For Mary’s Meals challenge this New Year.

“Together we can have twice the impact and ensure that more than 43,000 hungry children in Liberia receive a nutritious meal every day, making a positive and lasting difference to people living in some of the world’s poorest countries.”

Mary’s Meals is reaching more than 1.6 million hungry children in 19 of the poorest countries with a nutritious daily meal. The promise of food attracts impoverished children to the classroom, where they can gain an education that will one day be their ladder out of poverty. 

Gillian McMahon, director of supporter engagement at Mary’s Meals, added: “Whether it’s doing your regular run, getting on your bike or upping your daily step count, we hope that lots of people will get moving and take part in Miles For Mary’s Meals. Simply set yourself a goal and raise funds for every mile you meet, knowing that your efforts are bringing the hope of a brighter future to children in Liberia.”   

Those taking part in Miles for Mary’s Meals are asked to ensure that they participate in their chosen exercise challenge safely and in line with Covid-19 restrictions in their local area.

To find out more about organising your own Miles For Mary’s Meals fundraiser, visit marysmeals.org.uk