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Charity bike ride in memory of Harrogate rugby club legend

Monday, 18 August 2025 07:19

Jon Wiggins (right) is spearheading a fundraising campaign in memory of Eddie Kernoghan.

A charity bike ride is set to take place next month in memory of Harrogate Pythons Rugby Club legend Eddie Kernoghan.

Eddie passed away in June after being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND).

And a two-day bike ride will take place in his memory on 6th and 7th September, with riders cycling along the Leeds–Liverpool Canal from Anfield to Headingley, before finishing at the Harrogate Pythons RUFC ground at Station View in Starbeck.

The ride has been organised by Jon Wiggins, a friend of Eddie’s, alongside teammates Mike Ruthen, Kelly Grove, Dan Scott and Tom Everingham.

They will be supported by Lisa Wiggins, Lindsay Ruthen and Justin Ross, with further backing from Harrogate Pythons RUFC.

They’ll be fundraising for the Motor Neurone Disease Association after Eddie’s diagnosis earlier this year.

Lisa Wiggins said:

“We’ve put together a team to cycle the Leeds–Liverpool Canal route in Eddie’s memory, and also in memory of Rob Burrow, who was taken far too early.

“We’ll finish at Harrogate Pythons RUFC, Eddie’s club, and we’re proud to be doing this with the support of the Pythons family.

“We’re also holding a quiz and raffle night on 14th September at Knaresborough Working Men’s Club to continue the fundraising.”

In a message on the fundraising page, Jon Wiggins said:

“I have friends who have been affected by this disease and wanted to step up and do something to aid in the research and care for those who are affected.

“Please show your support and donate what you can to this cause. Many thanks for your support.”

Money raised will go to the Motor Neurone Disease Association, which supports people living with the condition and funds research into treatments.

The campaign has raised over £2,700 towards its £3,500 goal.

Find out more and visit the event’s JustGiving page here.

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