Ramadan began last week and Muslims have begun fasting across the UK, but one heroic pharmacist has launched another challenge for himself while he fasts for the rest of the month. 

Locum pharmacist Shahid Akhtar will embark on a 450km cycling odyssey near his home in Nottinghamshire, and in the process raise money for the people of Gaza. 

“I plan to cycle 15 km daily while fasting generally one to two hours before the fast opens,” Akhtar told C+D.  It’s the third year in a row he has set himself an endurance challenge. 

Read more: The fastest fasting pharmacist smashes challenge ahead of time and sets new target 

“The last two years I have done running, which was pretty challenging. My hope was to do the same this year, but it was not possible due to a foot injury. I have been out of action for around two months with it, but I made a last-minute decision to attempt a cycling challenge.  

“Three days in and thankfully my foot has not reacted too badly to cycling. I do a little recovery session in the evenings so I can go again the next day. I am not a regular cyclist but so far, I’m enjoying the rides!” 

Last year, Akhtar ran 240km and raised £7,525.95 after smashing his initial £3,000 donation target. 

Read more: The fastest fasting pharmacist in the UK 

He’s raised the stakes this year to a £5,000 donation target but said he hopes he will surpass that as he is raising “funds to help feed the people of Gaza”. 

“I find Ramadan to be such a rewarding month, and doing a challenge to help those not as fortunate as myself is challenging but very satisfying. I am hoping my fellow pharmacists will be very kind and generous in supporting me with this challenge.” 

Akhtar is raising the money for Charity Right, who are delivering food packages to displaced children and families in Gaza as many face extreme hunger in the area. 

Donate to Shahid Akhtar’s Ramadan Challenge 2025 here.