Junior cyclist Matt Cooil of Peel is doing his own indoor long-distance ride in aid of the NHS frontline workers and local businesses this weekend.

The 16 year old, who races regularly on the British scene for the Utmost Junior Cycling team, should be competing in the national series across Britain, but following the postponement of all racing until July at least, Matt has turned his attention to helping raise money for two worthy causes.

On Saturday he will be riding 365km on his indoor turbo trainer via the virtual cycling platform Zwift.

He estimates that the challenge will take roughly 12 hours, saying: ’It will be difficult mentally as well as physically, but nothing compared to the challenges our incredible frontline workers undertake on a daily basis. Hopefully people will recognise that and get involved by donating.’

Funds will be collected via his Justgiving page, simply search for ’Matthew Cooil’ in the site’s search bar, and will be used to purchase vouchers from local businesses affected by Covid-19, such as restaurants, hairdressers and beauticians, which will then be distributed directly to frontline healthcare workers.

Matt added: ’This is a great way of helping out two groups massively affected by the pandemic. The work that our healthcare service does on a daily basis is incredible and can’t go unnoticed. However, there is a danger that we could lose many local businesses if we don’t continue to support them during this crisis.

’If any businesses would like to be a part of it, they can get in touch via [email protected]’