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DOCTOR STEVE SETS OFF ON 50,000 MILE, FIVE YEAR CHARITY CYCLE

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26 January 2010

Emma Alies
news@southwarknews.org

If you're planning a trip abroad in 2010, keep your eyes peeled and you might spot the amazing cycling doctor from Southwark, Dr Steve Fabes, as he whizzes by.

The 29-year-old trust doctor has just set off on an epic five-year charity bike ride that will take him through six of the world's seven continents.

Steve, a specialist registrar, began his solo journey on Tuesday, January 5th from St Thomas' Hospital where he has worked for two and a half years.

He was waved off by a large crowd of friends, family, staff, local MP Simon Hughes and film crews, who all wished him 'bon voyage' as he set off on the first leg of his journey to Dover.

The charity cycle marathon will take him 50,000 miles through 60 countries - a distance equivalent to twice the circumference of the earth!

Travelling solely by pedal-power, with 'no buses, no cars, no trains and no planes', Dr Steve will brave three of the world's highest mountain ranges, face Patagonian headwinds, traverse arctic tundra and endure the sweltering heat of the Sahara desert.

He plans to do medical work as he travels, and raise money for the charity Merlin that works in countries in crisis, rebuilding shattered health services across the globe.

He said: "I wanted a big challenge and adventure and I love seeing a country by bicycle as you see lots of places and people are really interested in you.

"It's not going to be risk-free, but I've got things like GPS so people will know where I am at all times."
Of his plans to cycle by day, and camp in the wilds by night, he said: "At least it's going to be cheap."
His incredible voyage has attracted the support of some very high-profile supporters.

Adventurer Bear Grylls, who presents the C4 Born Survivor series, said: "This is an epic challenge and one that will touch many lives through the work of the charity Merlin. God' speed!"

Sir Chris Hoy, the triple gold medal-winning Olympic cyclist said: "A hugely ambitious and inspirational journey that will surely test Steve's resolve and determination to the limit. I wish him all the best on this remarkable challenge.
To sponsor Steve on his journey visit www.justgiving.com/cyclingthe6.

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