A Mitcham man has completed a 100km cycle across London on a single-speed bicycle to raise money for families displaced by a major fire on the Belgrave Walk estate.
Jake, who grew up on the Phipps Bridge estate and now lives in Mitcham, said he was moved to act after seeing the impact of the blaze, which tore through a block of converted flats on Saturday, July 25. The fire spread across all three floors and into the roof spaces of the building, with around 35 residents displaced and no injuries reported.
Rather than simply offering support from the sidelines, Jake decided to set himself the challenge of riding 100km in a single day to help those affected. He completed the route on his “silver surfer” bike, using the ride to highlight both the fire’s immediate impact and the wider issue of housing and fire safety.
The journey began at Belgrave Walk and took in sites linked to some of London’s most devastating housing fires, including Madingley, Lakanal House, Grenfell Tower and Ronan Point. Jake said the route was intended as a show of solidarity with the eight neighbouring households that lost their homes and belongings in the blaze.
The fundraiser is aiming to raise £3,000, with the money intended to help provide essentials for those displaced by the fire. Jake said he has been speaking with charities, including Wimbledon Guild, which put him in touch with Clarion Housing to help ensure the donations reach the right families.
A separate appeal for Bobby Davies, a coach who reportedly lost “absolutely everything” in the fire, has also raised thousands of pounds to help replace essentials and secure temporary accommodation
