Braving storms by moonlight to mend broken hearts

The 20-year-old student from Barton Hills felt compelled to take part in the Manchester to Blackpool Night Bike Ride after a series of family tragedies.

His grandmother Amarjeet Kaur died from a heart attack six years and he lost his grandfather, Reshwel Singh, a year later.

Then four years ago Simranjeet’s aunt, Rajinder Kaur, died of heart-related problems when she was only 39.

“I decided to take part in the ride to raise funds for research but also to raise awareness,” he said.

“It rained throughout the ride, contrary to the BBC forecast which said it would be dry.

“But the route was very well marshalled. There were about 700 riders and we all wore hi-vis jackets. My bike was also well lit.

“There were always lots of people ahead and behind.

“I really enjoyed the experience because it was for such a great cause. It was important for me to do this event in memory of my aunt and my grandparents.”

Simranjeet, who is reading economics and politics at Manchester, is a keen sportsman and takes part in rugby, hockey and rowing at university.

He started cycling seriously when he signed up for the night ride.

“I did it in three hours and 51 minutes,” he said. “I came in the first quarter and was really, really chuffed.

“So far I’ve raised more than £300 but I’d like to up that to £500.”

He did a 10km marathon for BHF last year and intends doing more for the charity.

His 22-year-old sister Kiranjeet is a medical student. “One of the reasons she wanted to be a doctor was to help people with a family history like ours,” he said.

“My parents are very proud of both of us.”

Organisers hope to raise £165,000 for the Mending Broken Hearts Appeal. Funding groundbreaking research will cost in the region of £50 million.

The Manchester to Blackpool Night Ride was led by actress Gemma Atkinson whose father died of heart disease.

Entrants cycled under the stars for 60 miles passing through Wigan, Bolton, Chorley, Preston and Lytham St Annes before enjoying a spectacular sunrise at Blackpool Tower.

BHF head of events Nancy Prior said: “We would like to thank Simranjeet and everyone else who took part, supported us and volunteered for our first Night Bike Ride.

“In spite of the bad weather, it was a fantastic event and everyone had a great evening.

“Everyone who supported this event is helping us achieve our goal of one day being able to mend broken hearts.”

> If you’d like to take part in next year’s ride call 0300 456 8355 or email [email protected]