Man, 20, cycles 1,200 miles in Scandinavia for Parkinson’s

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Two lads smiling and cyclingImage source, Jonah Hawksley
Image caption,

Jonah (L) cycled for three weeks across Scandinavia with his friend Fabian (R) keeping him company for a few days.

A man from Somerset has cycled 1,200 miles (2,000km) through Scandinavia to raise money for Parkinson's UK.

Jonah Hawksley, 20, from North Cadbury, cycled 93 miles (150km) a day to help fundraise for his grandparents, who both have the disease.

He pedalled through Norway, Finland and Sweden over a month whilst even camping each evening in the wilderness.

Jonah said: "I have seen first hand the difficulty and impact that living with Parkinson's has caused my family."

"Despite how much Parkinson's has taken from my grandparents, their bravery in keeping a positive inspired me to take on this challenge."

Image source, Jonah Hawksley
Image caption,

They had several breakdowns during the journey

Jonah started his journey in the Norwegian Arctic, battled through thunderstorm and even a lost passport before making it to the King's Palace in Stockholm, Sweden. 

It took him three weeks to complete the challenge and has raised more than £600 for charity.

He was joined by his friend Fabian, who he met whilst doing the challenge in Scandinavia.

Image source, Jonah Hawksley
Image caption,

Jonah said the views across Scandinavia were spectacular

Jonah continued: "I knew I had set myself a tough mental and physical challenge and just knew I had to keep pedalling for those closest to me and for those who continue to battle Parkinson's.

"I also wanted to prove to myself that I was capable of completing this challenging cycle and to help raise money for Parkinson's UK."

"I want to do another fundraising challenge in the future - but just not on a bike again! It will be walking or running next time."

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