The Hartlepool man who is cycling for eight hours under a baking sun for the NHS

Joe Robinson, 32, decided he wanted to do more than just clap for carers, and he wanted to raise money for the heroes who were helping to save lives across the North East during the pandemic.

So he and his partner Gemma Shires, 26, decided on a fundraiser with an initial target of £300. Joe plumped for a static ride on a bike positioned outside his house today.

Joe smashed the first fundraising target within the first few hours of cycling and was rapidly heading towards £500 half way through his cycle ride.

He said: “I have done fundraising before but not for a few years. I was sat with my partner and we had been clapping for the carers and we said it’s good idea but we should try and raise money for the NHS.

“We thought we would do it for the North East specifically.”

Joe runs the Comic Shop in York Road. He also works in a care home, supports Families First and plays rugby for Tech in Hartlepool.

But today, he was enduring a baking hot sun as he cycled continuously and was only taking toilet breaks. Gemma, meanwhile, was supplying water for Joe during his ride which was continuing until 6pm today.

Anyone who would like to support Joe during his fundraiser should visit here.

To find out the latest coronavirus updates and stories, visit the Hartlepool Mail’s live blog.

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