On Sunday 13th May, I will be riding the infamous 112 mile Fred Whitton Challenge road sportive which includes all five major Lake District passes and many other climbs that all add up to a real test of endurance. Read about the sportive at: http://www.fredwhittonchallenge.org.uk/

The ride falls very close to the first anniversary of my mother's death. She died from a very aggressive and painful form of stomach cancer which tore through her body in a matter of months. 

Jill 'Madge' Rothwell was the most amazing mother anyone could wish for. She put everyone else first. She was consistent and caring. She was funny and fun to be around. She knew what was important in life. How cruel that her final months, weeks and days were so tragic and painful. She lived in Spain and was simply put in a bed, understanding little of what was happening and with little personal support. As a family, we also felt dazed, shocked confused and helpless. We all wanted and needed support, both emotionally and practically. This made me very aware of the importance of the work of Macmillan Cancer Care as no such support was available to us. Please read about the services and support they offer because, sadly, either you or someone you know or love will probably need their support at some time. It is a very important provision.

As a result of this experience, I am riding the Fred Whitton Challenge in memory and honour of Madge and raising funds for Macmillan Cancer Support along the way.

If you can spare some money please donate to this very worthy cause.  

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.