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Fallen para's family touched by support
Overwhelmed with pride, the parents of fallen hero Nathan Cuthbertson have said "thank you" for the events organised in memory of their son.
More than 45 riders took part in a gruelling 24-hour 200-mile charity cycling trek round the North East – including a night of torrential rain – in aid of services charity the Not Forgotten Association.
Tired, wet and saddle-sore, the riders returned to Ashbrooke Sports Club, where they were greeted by crowds at a fun day culminating in a spectacular display by the Red Devils parachute team.
Nathan's parents said they were "overwhelmed" by the support shown and said the efforts of all those who took part in the events left them filled with pride.
"It was just so overwhelming," said mum Carla. "I had so many well-wishers coming up to me, even people I don't know."
Carla, 36, joined dad Nathan's Tom, 40, and brother Connon, 15, on the ride. Joining them were other family members, friends, ex-paras, a delegation from the 4 Para reserve unit in Hebburn, and other riders.
Some of Nathan's friends from 2 Para who served alongside him in Afghanistan also took part.
Tom said it was the memory of his son that got him round the gruelling route, which took in Teesside, Tyneside, Wearside and County Durham.
"It's not just for Nathan, it's for everyone," he said. "For the sacrifices being made by our young men and women in Afghanistan and Iraq, today is just a small token of thanks for what they have done and are doing."
Nathan, from Tunstall, was just 19 when he was killed in a suicide bomb attack in Afghanistan in June while serving in the troubled Helmand province.
The Rev Stephen Hazlett, from Sunderland Minster, led the riders in prayer and remembrance before they set off, paying tribute not just to Nathan but all those lost in recent conflicts.
The "Cuthy's 200" bike ride was set up by organiser Colin Charlton, who is related to Nathan by marriage, to make sure the young para is not forgotten.
Tom and Carla thanked all those who attended and helped organise the events, including the sports club, the riders and support vehicle team and Colour Sergeant Marty Powell and his team from 4 Para who provided support to the cyclists and organised activities.
They also thanked the Sunderland Volunteer Life Brigade for providing medical cover, Carla's uncle Rob Reid for donating the food and water and the fire service and North East Ambulance Service for their involvement.
Tom's cousin, David, also performed at the event with his renowned North East band The Generals.
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Weather for Sunderland
Friday 10 February 2012
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Temperature: -3 C to 2 C
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