So, I'm getting on my bike and cycling from London to Amsterdam in support of Prostate Cancer UK and in memory of our dad - Ray - who died from the disease in July 2013. As an added bonus, I've actually been selected to represent Notts County FC on the ride which is the club dad supported for the best part of 70 years, so I'll be trying to do them all proud.

My daughter was very concerned for me when I first told here about the event, but that was because she mis-heard me and thought I said I was cycling to Afghanistan! Once that was cleared up, Amsterdam didn't seem such a bad thing!

Back to why Prostate Cancer UK is close to my heart ... It was only when dad was first diagnosed that I discovered my grandad had died of the same thing, and then at dad's funeral, I discovered my great-grandad had gone the same way ... no guesses for what I now get tested for every year (through a simple blood test before you ask!). So, it seemed a natural and very worthy cause to support.

For anyone who has experienced Prostate Cancer you'll know what impact it can have on both the patient and the family. Prostate Cancer UK are helping to fight the disease through medical research and providing a help and support network.

So, I'm looking for your support to reach my target, and in return I'll don the lycra, get fit(ter) and sweat buckets to complete the ride. I'll also be running other events and activities over the next six months to help achieve the target, so I'll keep you posted.

If nothing else, if you know someone who is showing the potential signs of Prostate Cancer, please encourage them to visit their GP - spotting things early significantly helps recovery.

Thanks for listening -- I'll use this page to update you on my training regime and progress ... should be interesting!