Dance teacher hoping to inspire on 2,500 mile fundraising journey

A determined dance teacher is gearing up for a 2,500 mile journey along the coast inspired by the memory of her late father.

Elaine Macey, of Maidenhead Road in Windsor, will spend six weeks cycling, running, swimming and stand-up paddling (SUP) along the Kent and Essex coast.

She plans on travelling six days a week, covering on average 410 miles per week.

On the seventh day of each week, the 34-year-old will volunteer in the numerous coastal communities teaching dance.

Elaine has co-run 4Motion Dance Theatre Company, in the Vansittart Estate, for 10 years and teaches dance and yoga around Windsor.

The first leg of her journey will see her cycle a route inspired by her dad, John Macey, who died from cardiac arrest in February aged 66.

At 14 his family moved from Watford to Ramsgate in Kent, and he decided to cycle the distance rather than go in the removal van.

Elaine has arranged for a group of nine to complete the same 104 mile journey from Watford to Westgate, Kent, setting off at 2am on Friday, July 29.

Elaine's mum Marie, 66, will drive the support vehicle and halfway through the ride, six others will join.

For eight years John had degenerative neurological conditions ataxia and Parkinson’s.

He taught Elaine how to 'swim, run and be active' and she said when he had to start using a wheelchair he 'adapted to his new way of life with a great sense of humour'.

The team will raise money and awareness for Parkinson's UK and Ataxia UK.

After her first bike ride challenge, Elaine will go solo to complete the 2,500 mile challenge.

The dance teacher has created a website called www.giving-it-back.com where she will document her travels as she attempts to raise £1,000.

Elaine said: "It has been in the pipeline for a year or so and the concept is giving it back.

"I am going to engage with different coastal communities. It is really about getting people active and making a difference.

"I hope it will get people inspired to go out and help other people and get outdoors and trying something they never thought was possible," Elaine added.

Visit justgiving.com/team/Johns104milebikeride to donate.