Northampton Town boss Boothroyd gets on his bike for charity

SADDLED UP - Cobblers boss Aidy Boothroyd (left) pictured with fellow cyclists (from left) John Solako, Ian Wright, Geoff Thomas and Mitchell Thomas

Boothroyd set off for France this morning, doing his bit to raise money for blood cancer charity Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research.

The Town manager was in a peloton of 170 cyclists that set off for Paris today, alongside former footballers Ian Wright, Geoff Thomas, John Salako and Mitchell Thomas.

Also on the trip are the likes of Alastair Campbell, who is chairman of fundraising for the charity, actor Dean Andrews (Life on Mars) and sports presenter Jill Douglas.

The four day bike ride set off at 8am from Greenwich Park and will take the cyclists more than 450km to Paris.

Boothroyd and the other participants will experience the excitement of being part of a peloton, with motorcycle outriders and closed roads, as well as an entourage of mechanics, physiotherapists and support vehicles.

Former England footballer Thomas, a leukaemia survivor and ambassador for Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research, said: “Since being diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) in 2003 I have met many incredible people including determined doctors, inspiring patients and selfless fundraisers.

“For me, ‘London | Paris: Be Unstoppable’ is another way I can continue to raise awareness and help Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research to beat blood cancers and improve the lives of patients so they can live their lives to the full.

“We want to reach a place where being diagnosed today won’t stop you riding tomorrow.”

Former Arsenal, Crystal Palace and England striker Wright added: ““It is great to be joining up with my friend and former team-mate Geoff Thomas to take part in this ride.

“We aim to raise as much money as possible to help beat blood cancer.”