THERE is nothing unusual in youngsters jumping on their bike and riding over to see their granny – however, for one Findochty girl, that trip is going to involve a 700-mile pedal traversing three countries. Maya Muhle-MacDonald (11), along with mum Ulrike, is set to begin her epic journey on June 25 during which she hopes to raise cash for the charity Mary’s Meals. Her dad, Pete MacDonald, explained: “It’s an amazing journey Maya and Ulrike are about to undertake. “They’ll travel down to Newcastle take the night ferry to Amsterdam, then following various cycle paths, head towards Berlin and then south towards Dresden, where her Omi (grandmother) lives in a town (Pirna) . “The journey on the bikes will take at least three weeks to arrive in Dresden, but they are following designated cycle paths and stopping off at camp sites along the way through Holland and into Germany. “Both Maya and her mother are keen cyclists, Maya going to school each day on her bike.” The youngster’s concern for others, plus inspiration from her school, will mean meals for hungry kids thanks to her support for Mary’s Meals. “The idea to have a road trip came about from caring about the environment as each year they normally fly to Germany. but this will be a fantastic way of seeing both countries from the kerb,” Mr MacDonald continued. “Whilst at school Maya ,who attends Findochty Primary School was shown a video of the work of a charity called Mary’s Meals. Watching the video and being inspired to help them she has decided to raise funds for the mercy organisation. At the time of writing she has now well over £200.
See full story in Banffshire Advertiser 11.06.2019