Cyclist raises £10,000 for arthritis charity in record attempt

Scottish endurance cyclist Josh Quigley has hit his £10,000 fundraising target for Arthritis Action while attempting to break a world record.

Josh, who is the fastest person to cycle the North Coast 500, was forced to abandon his bid to beat the record for the greatest distance cycled in a week after suffering a serious knee injury earlier this month.

The injury on the fourth day of his cycle came as a major blow after he clocked up daily distances that, if continued for the full seven days, would have seen him set a new world record.

Since ending his challenge, the 28-year-old has undergone intensive rehabilitation and recovery and intends to make a fresh attempt along the same route this summer.

Josh, who was diagnosed with arthritis earlier this year, said: “I was extremely disappointed at being forced to stop and pull out of the world record attempt — but I feel very proud of my support team and what we all achieved up in Deeside.

“Although I didn’t manage it this time, I put in a strong performance and still hit the £10,000 fundraising target for Arthritis Action.

“There also was huge support from the local Deeside community, and I’d like to thank everyone who came along and cheered me on — their support meant so much to me and really helped me dig deep.”

Shantel Irwin, CEO at Arthritis Action, said: “The whole team has been inspired by Josh’s world record-breaking attempt. His drive and ambition have proved that young people living with conditions such as arthritis are still able to push themselves and live extraordinary, fulfilling lives.

“Arthritis can affect people of any age – in fact, around four million people under the age of 35 live with arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions in the UK.

“We believe that Josh’s attempt will help to inspire others like him to see the potential within themselves and live a more active life with arthritis. We’re all very much looking forward to Josh’s next attempt at the Guinness World Record later this year!”