It's 60 miles, 60 hours and 6,000 feet for Alan (60)

Banbridge man Alan Forbes celebrated his 60th birthday by helping others.
Daniel Forbes with his father AlanDaniel Forbes with his father Alan
Daniel Forbes with his father Alan

Alan chose to mark his milestone birthday by selflessly taking part in a 60 mile trail in 60 hours, climbing 6,000 feet at six mountain bike trails throughout Northern Ireland. The remarkable feat helped him raise over £3,015 for Action Cancer.

He was joined by son Daniel and the pair set off from Castlewellan Forest Park and finished by climbing Slieve Martin, Rostrevor two days later. Other routes along the way included Davagh Forest trails, and Big Wood, Warrenpoint.

He said he was touched by the support and generosity of so many people.

Mr Forbes said, “We received massive support from businesses and people in the local community. I was also touched by the generosity of complete strangers who donated when they heard what we were doing.

“I would like to thank everyone who supported us in any way, from kind donations to fellow mountain bike enthusiasts who rode sections with us.

“I would particularly like to thank Darren Weir from Spinning Studio Banbridge for working on endurance training with me.

Alan chose to support Action Cancer following the death of his father. He had passed away from cancer and his mum found Action Cancer’s services a real help.

Action Cancer’s Arlene Creighton said, “Alan’s total of £3,015 will enable Action Cancer to deliver 86 Complimentary Therapy sessions.”