"Age no barrier to cycling the North Island"

AGE CONCERN MEDIA RELEASE - TUESDAY 10 OCTOBER 2000

"Age no barrier to cycling the North Island"

61 year old Phillip Marcroft decided he wanted to do something positive to promote issues for older people. So, with the help of local sponsorship and a great deal of determination, he's cycling from Auckland to his home town of Wanganui this week, on a mission to promote positive ageing.

Yesterday, Monday, he set out from Auckland at 9am, heading for Hamilton. Phillip Marcroft intends to travel the distance over the next four days, stopping overnight in Hamilton, Taupo, and Ohakune before reaching Wanganui on Thursday.

Phillip Marcroft is supported by Age Concern Wanganui in his quest to promote positive ageing and older people as valued, vital and visible.

The local community and businesses in Wanganui have also rallied behind him, donating equipment, accommodation and meals, and a support vehicle which will accompany him on his journey. Phillip Marcroft and his message will be visible to other travellers on his route, due to the billboard he has attached to his cycle, displaying the words "positive ageing" in large letters.

Anyone interested in supporting or promoting his journey can reach Phillip on his donated mobile phone on 025 210 7439.

ENDS

Age Concern is a not-for-profit, charitable organisation working to promote the well-being and quality of life of older people in New Zealand, since 1948.

For further information, please contact:

Ron Hilton, Chairperson, Age Concern Wanganui: (hm) 0-6-344 6431

Dr Margaret Guthrie, National President, Age Concern New Zealand: (hm) 0-4-233 9016 (mobile) 025 649 0889

http://www.ageconcern.org.nz

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