Former detective to complete epic 2,500 mile charity cycle across Europe and Africa in memory of schoolgirl

Daily Record

2 days ago

Johnny Dreczkowski, a retired Detective Inspector who worked with the Head of Counter Terrorism and Covert Specialist Training, is set to arrive in the Moroccan city of Marrakesh tomorrow (Thursday) after tackling some of Europe and Africa's toughest terrain.
A retired anti-terrorism detective is nearing the end of a gruelling 2,500-mile charity cycle ride to Morocco in memory of a tragic Scottish schoolgirl.
Johnny Dreczkowski, a former Detective Inspector who worked alongside the Head of Counter Terrorism and Covert Specialist Training, is due to reach Marrakesh tomorrow (Thursday), having traversed some of Europe and Africa's most challenging landscapes.
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The epic journey was undertaken by Johnny to raise much-needed funds for a respite home established in memory of a Scottish teenager.
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Setting off from the historic Stirling Castle at the beginning of May, Johnny has cycled solo and unsupported through seven countries, across two continents, crossing three different time zones – all within just 34 days.
His efforts are aimed at raising vital funds for the Eilidh Brown Memorial Fund respite home, located in Thornhill, Stirling.
Johnny, who resides not far from the home, in Bridge of Allan, has so far navigated his way through Scotland, England, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Spain, and finally Morocco.
The respite home, nestled in the Stirlingshire countryside, holds a special significance for Johnny. His wife, Ally Croal, was the architect who collaborated closely with Eilidh's family to turn the dream of the respite home into reality.
Eilidh, a young girl from Stirling, lost her fight against a rare germ cell cancer on March 25, 2010, just nine days before her 16th birthday. During her battle with the rare disease, Eilidh and her family, from St Ninians, spent quality time together at the Calum's Cabin respite home on the Isle of Bute.
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Eilidh's final wish was for a sanctuary to be built closer to home, where families grappling with the fear and uncertainty of childhood cancer could find solace.
After over a decade of tireless fundraising and dedication from her family, the respite home finally came to fruition in 2023, offering much-needed support to families during their darkest hours.
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However, to keep the home operational, it requires a minimum of £50,000 annually. Johnny is hopeful that his solo ride will not only raise awareness but also contribute significantly towards this amount.
Speaking with the Stirling Observer before embarking on his remarkable journey, Johnny explained: "Why am I doing this? Because the Eilidh Brown Respite Home provides much-needed support and a safe haven for families dealing with the unimaginable.
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"They offer a space of comfort and care, and I want to help ensure that with annual costs of around £50,000, they can continue their unbelievable work.
"But I can't do it alone – I need your help! By sponsoring my ride, you'll be directly supporting the Eilidh Brown Respite Home and the incredible families they assist.
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"Every mile I ride will be powered by your generosity and our belief in this cause.
"Your kindness and teamwork built this, let's keep it going, help me please."
Johnny has taken on the entire cost of his ride, ensuring that every single penny raised from each pedal stroke goes directly towards the home.
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With the close family ties to the respite home, Johnny has been no stranger to massive fundraising efforts. In May 2021, he cycled an impressive 875-miles from Land's End to John O'Groats, all in aid of the Eilidh Brown Memorial Fund.
His other feats include completing the West Highland Way, conquering the North Coast 500, undertaking the Three Peaks Challenge, participating in the Cateran Yomp 24-hour Challenge and running the London Marathon.
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In May 2023, he embarked on a solo cycling journey spanning 1,400-miles, from Stirling Castle to the Colosseum. in Rome, to raise funds for the respite home.
Just last year, he managed to cycle around the entirety of the UK and Ireland in a mere seven days.
Over time, his tireless efforts have helped amass more than £100,000 for charity, thanks to the unwavering support of friends, family, and the local community.
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This year alone, his marathon endeavour has already raised a staggering sum exceeding £27,000.
Upon his return to Scotland, Johnny plans to host a 'Rock to Morocco Music Festival' as a celebration of these efforts and to generate additional funds. The event is scheduled to take place at The Meadowpark Kitchen and Bar on Saturday, June 14, with tickets available for purchase on Eventbrite for £20.
All proceeds will go towards The Eilidh Brown Respite Home.
To contribute towards Johnny's 'Rock to Morocco', click here.