Tameside couple take on epic tandem cycling challenges to raise funds for rescue cats and charities

A local Tameside couple, Megan and Mark, have spent the past decade pedalling thousands of miles across the UK, on a tandem bike, all in the name of charity.

Now, they’re using their passion for cycling to help a cause especially close to their hearts: Rescue Kitties, a dedicated cat rescue run by Amy, who tirelessly rehabilitates stray and injured cats across Greater Manchester.

Their most recent fundraising push is to support Rescue Kitties’ urgent need for vet care funding. The rescue works closely with Vets4Pets Stockport, who have always supported their efforts, but as vet bills rise, so does the pressure. “They never turn us away,” says Amy, “but we do owe them money, and we rely on donations to keep saving lives.”

Megan and Mark’s fundraising aims to raise vital funds for the cats who need it most. “Rescue Kitties gave us our own beloved cat, Wizzy,” Megan says. “This is our way of giving back.”

Their journey began in 2015, following the passing of Megan’s Nan. Inspired to honour her memory, they purchased their first tandem, a trusty old blue bike affectionately named “Bob” after Grandad Bob and signed up for their first charity ride: the Manchester to Blackpool bike ride, raising £455 for the Alzheimer’s Society.

Since then, the couple have clocked up thousands of miles on various charity rides, with events including: Leeds 100k, Manchester to Liverpool, and the challenging Manchester 100-mile ride, epic solo rides including the Cheshire Sportive, Isle of Man TT circuit, and multiple Coast to Coast (Seascale to Whitby) routes.

Their causes have included the Alzheimer’s Society, British Heart Foundation, St Anne’s Hospice, Parkinson’s UK, Children with Cancer, Dementia UK, Milly’s Smiles, and most recently, Brain Tumour Research, raising a total of thousands of pounds over the years.

In June 2024, the pair completed a massive 207-mile ride from Gretna to Llandudno, raising £505 in memory of Grandma Eva. Just a week later, they cycled Seascale to Whitby and back across two days, totalling over 300 miles.

And they show no signs of slowing down, so far in 2025 the pair have already completed the Tour de Manc, another Coast to Coast in June, and a jaw-dropping Stalybridge to London ride on 28th June.

Their tandem cycling adventures, documented under the name Double Trouble Tandem on Facebook, have inspired a growing community of supporters. Whether braving 10,000ft climbs or cycling through the night, Megan and Mark say the memory of loved ones and the lives they’re helping keep them going.

“This all started with Nanna,” Megan says. “She was the inspiration, and every ride since has been for someone we love, or someone who needs our help.”

Now, with their fundraising focused on Rescue Kitties, they hope their miles will help save more feline lives. “Amy works miracles,” Mark adds. “These cats have no one else. If our legs can help raise a bit more for vet care, then every mile is worth it.”

To support Megan and Mark’s mission to fund Rescue Kitties’ vet bills, visit: www.gofundme.com/Tandem4RescueKitties

Follow their journey on Facebook: Double Trouble Tandem

Megan and Mark outside of Buckingham Palace after their Stalybridge to London ride.