Many thanks for all donations, both on and off line.  I completed the 128 miles (not sure where the extra 3 miles came from!) in 8 hours pedalling.  It was jolly hot as well but made more poignant by the fact that a friend of mine passed away in Rowans Hospice last week.

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I'm riding a 125 mile cycle sportive on 8 Jun and using the opportunity to raise money for Rowans Hospice.

As you will know, although I've lost a few pounds since I gave up playing rugby, I'm not exactly built for cycling uphill and the organisers have managed to pack 3000m of ascent into the route so it will be a considerable challenge.  The ride is not a race however ....... the other 2 Services have teams entered and the Royal Navy won last year; competition always add a little spice.  I don't want to predict a time to complete the event but it's probably going to be around 9 hours - hopefully before nightfall!

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: The Rowans Hospice will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.

All sponsorship is most welcome, no matter how small, and I encourage you to dig deep for this worthy cause.  If you're uncomfortable about donating on line I will of course accept cheques, cash, or buckets of gold sovereigns.

Thank you very much for your support.

P.S. I've now got well over £200 of offline pledges as well - thanks to all for contributing.