On 26 January 2005, RAF cyclist Lee Cairns was involved in a serious road traffic accident. The accident left Lee, a top road cyclist and up and coming mountain biker, permanently paralysed and confined to using a wheelchair. Since then, Lee has been unable to continue with his career as an RAF Policeman and has had some mammoth personal challenges to overcome.

As an aspiring athlete, the bug has remained with him and he dreams of returning to competition. Lee took part in the Great North Run in an adapted wheelchair and came eight. The other seven wheelchair racers ahead of him were all Olympic standard athletes. The fire still burns within and the desire to compete continues. In order for him to reach his goal, Lee needs a very special hand bicycle which costs £3000.

Members of RAF Cycling have rallied together and are busy raising funds to help Lee reach his goal. Auctions of memorabilia, bike equipment, raffles and even tea and cakes have occurred.

On 10 November 2008 we exceeded our target and are still counting the pennies to gain the final total. A big thinks go to everyone who donated items, made pledges and supported this cause. We hope to have images of Lee with his new bike as soon as he takes delivery of it.