On Sunday 31 May I took part in a cycle ride from Cambridge (where CARA was founded) to SOAS in central London. It was a hot day with about 70-80 cyclists taking part. I ended up doing around 67 miles in just over 5 hours by the time I reached SOAS, but I don't doubt distances will vary because navigation was the main challenge. I managed to put in an unscheduled detour not far outside Cambridge, but rejoined the route without too much trouble. I decided to regard the long extra climb the detour involved as a useful training bonus and suppressed any temptation to swear. Believe it or not I am capable of seeing a ride like that as good fun and this one certainly was, especially in the beautiful weather. I'm very pleased to have had the chance to support CARA and extremely grateful to everybody who has made a donation.

CARA was founded as The Academic Assistance Council (AAC) in March 1933 by William Beveridge, then Director of the London School of Economics, in response to an article in a Viennese newspaper announcing "that a dozen leading professors were being dismissed from posts in German Universities by the newly established Nazi regime, either on racial or on political grounds."

Renamed the Council for Assisting Refugee Academics in 1998, it aims to help university teachers and investigators of whatever country who, on grounds of religion, political opinion, or race are unable to carry out their work in their own country.  Through its core Grant & Advice Programme, this charitable organisation has in the past 75 years provided practical support to over 9,000 displaced academics and their dependents, helping to rebuild shattered lives and ensure that their "special knowledge and abilities may continue to be used for the benefit of mankind". 

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: the Council for Assisting Refugee Academics gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

Thanks for visiting my fundraising page and supporting CARA in its programme of assistance for persecuted academics from all corners of the world.