Ex-firefighter cycling round the world for Grenfell youth

Retired firefighter Stephen Aslin, 58, will embark on a 30,000-mile solo bike ride starting June 14, coinciding with the eighth anniversary of the Grenfell Tower fire. Aslin plans to cycle 100 kilometers each day for five days a week, aiming to complete the journey in a year and a half. He will visit fire stations worldwide and hopes to arrive in New York for the 25th anniversary of 9/11. As a former station officer in North Kensington, Aslin feels a personal connection to the tragedy, as he lost a schoolfriend, Ernie Vital, in the fire. He aims to raise money for youth projects funded by the Grenfell Foundation, which supports bereaved families and survivors.

Aslin also seeks to raise awareness about the ongoing lack of justice related to the fire, stating that even by the time he returns, prosecutions may still be pending. He emphasizes the importance of helping the next generation while honoring the memory of the victims. His dedication to the cause reflects both personal grief and a commitment to community support.