10 December 2025
Nigel and his grandson Finn, both keen cyclists, set off from Cornwall in August with a clear mission: to ride from Land’s End to John O’Groats, covering 1200 miles in 18 days, and to raise vital funds for Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP).
Nigel’s support for MAP goes back many years, including his participation in Cycle Palestine in 2018. After witnessing the ongoing devastation in Gaza since October 2023 and weekly vigils in their hometown of Durham, Nigel and Finn felt compelled to do more.
Nigel explained, “With the terrible things that are happening in Gaza and the West Bank, it is difficult to think of a more worthwhile charity than MAP. I cycled for them in the West Bank in 2018 and saw what good work they are doing, and now the need is greater than ever.”
For those unfamiliar, LEJOG is one of the UK’s most iconic and demanding long-distance challenges. Stretching from Land’s End in Cornwall to John O’Groats at Scotland’s northeastern tip, it spans the entire length of the UK. Completing it is a remarkable achievement, yet Nigel and Finn managed it as grandfather and grandson, raising over £10,000 in support of the health and dignity for Palestinians.
The journey was long and tough but sharing it as family made it unforgettable. Finn, young and speedy, often raced ahead, absorbed in the sweeping scenery. Yet no matter how far apart they drifted, they always regrouped as Finn described “Nigel never stopped.”
Together, they cycled through breathtaking landscapes, swam in waterfalls, and chatted with fellow travelers. Finn described it as “a fantastic experience, where every day you saw something new.”
They were met with an influx of generous donations from family, friends, and Nigel’s patients, all eager to support their fundraising efforts. They also enjoyed a stroke of luck throughout their journey “no punctures and lovely weather throughout three weeks in August.”
Along the route, they found community too, meeting cyclists who cheered them on and shouted “Free Palestine” as they passed, proudly displaying their Palestinian flag.
It’s fundraisers like Noel and Felix who make our projects in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon possible. Thanks to support like theirs, MAP has been able to support almost one million Palestinians across Gaza, and we couldn’t be more grateful.
Thank you, Nigel and Finn for taking on this incredible challenge for Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP).