Currently working at Walsall Football Club, I was shocked to hear the tragic news of defender Dean Holden and his wife Danielle losing their 17-month old daughter Cici to meningococcal sepsis, a rare bacterial blood infection, on holiday last summer.

You can read Dean's story here:

http://www.expressandstar.com/sport/other-football/walsall-fc/2012/10/13/dean-holden-moved-as-fans-unite-in-support-after-tragedy/

I remember interviewing Dean without knowing his families torment, and instantly I thought he was a great guy. It wasn't until I read about his former club Shrewsbury Town taking a collection a few weeks later that I found out about the tragedy, of which you can read here:

http://www.shrewsburytown.com/news/article/27sep12-dean-holden-collection-393524.aspx

After finding out about the Holden's story, and reading more about the affects meningitis has on so many people, I came up with the idea to undergo a charity bike ride.

As a football fanatic, I will tackle the self-labelled 'Tour de Banks's' bike event, cycling up to 40 miles to all the West Midlands football clubs.

Starting at Walsall FC's Banks's Stadium, I shall make the gruelling round trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers, West Bromwich Albion, Birmingham City and Aston Villa, before returning to the Banks's for my final leg.

40 miles may not seem alot for the avid cyclist, but I have not rode a bike for over 7 years and I am hardly the fittest person in the world, so it is a challenge for myself, but one I relish.... Whilst most importantly, raising money and awareness for the Meningitis Trust.

I hope to raise up to £1000 and will begin the 'Tour de Banks's' in April/May time.

In the meantime, I shall try my very best to keep you up-to-date with my progress and I hope you can donate as much or as little as you can, remember to check for gift aid- it doesn't cost you anything.

Many thanks,

Jon.