Hospital consultant Carl Philpott has swapped the flatlands of Norfolk for the hills of the Peak District, Malverns and Cheddar Gorge as he enters the final phase of training for a gruelling bike ride across Britain.
The 41-year-old from Norwich, who is a consultant ENT surgeon and rhinologist at the James Paget University Hospital in Gorleston, will be taking part in the 970-mile Deloitte Ride Across Britain.
Starting at Land’s End on 9 September, Carl aims to cycle an average of 110 miles a day to arrive in John O’Goats eight days later.
“It’s a daunting challenge but I’m looking forward to it,” said Carl. “I am now entering the final phase of training – and have been looking to cycle in some more testing terrain, including the Peak District, so that I am fully prepared for steeper climbs that aren’t available in East Anglia.”
Carl is hoping to raise £10,000 for Fifth Sense, a charity which helps those who suffer with smell and taste disorders. The charity has a remit to help educate the public on the importance of smell and taste in everyday life to help convey the impact of losing these senses.
In his role as a prominent ear, nose and throat surgeon, Carl is currently playing a leading role in a major research project looking at the management of adult chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), which has been awarded more than £3 million in funding from the National Institute of Health Research.
To sponsor Carl on the cycle ride, visit https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/carlphilpott1