A Kirklees councillor has cycled 400-miles to raise money for those affected by flooding in Pakistan and Kashmir.
In recent weeks, devastating floods have struck the regions, with large areas submerged, leaving thousands displaced. Over 800 people have been killed in the monsoon.
Leader of the Kirklees Community Independents, Councillor Ali Arshad (Heckmondwike), has been central to local efforts to raise funds. He teamed up with two other cyclists, covering at least 100 miles each day, making a dent in the £20,000 target in the process.
Image: Kirklees Council
He said: “This four-day, 400-mile challenge from Aberdeen to Dewsbury has been one of the toughest things I’ve ever undertaken, but every mile was worth it for the incredible cause we are supporting. Hope Welfare Trust are doing vital work to help the victims of the devastating floods in Pakistan and Kashmir, and through combined fundraising activities we’ve already raised £14,241 towards our £20,000 target.
“The link will remain open until the end of September, and we hope people will continue to give generously. This ride would not have been possible without the support vehicle and first aid cover provided by Mohammed Khalil of Hope Welfare Trust, but above all, I owe huge thanks to Banares Saddique and Shafaqat Hussain – two of West Yorkshire’s finest cyclists – whose expertise and encouragement ensured I made it through this challenge.
“This has been a true team effort, and together we are determined to keep raising as much as we can for those in desperate need. We wish to thank all that contributed.”
A link to the fundraiser is as follows: https://www.launchgood.com/v4/campaign/miles_of_hope_ride_for_azad_kashmir
