This summer, myself and my cousin Ben will be cycling from the South to the North of Ireland over 7 days. This will be our first taster at bicycle touring, covering long distances each day (over 700km in total), as well as getting to see and explore parts of an island we were born on but have not had the chance to fully see or appreciate in its history and culture.

This has been a plan for some time for both of us. It will be tough, but it is ultimately a cycle based around fun and adventure. However, over the last few months (and years) I have personally struggled with my own mental health. Cycling, and especially going out on long rides with my cousin since last year, have become a massive help in clearing my head, keeping me optimistic, and giving me time to get away from everything.

I want to use this ride as a way of giving back and helping, the way cycling has helped me. Any money raised by this crowdfunder will go towards the great mental health charity Mind, as well as Network, an amazing charity in Bristol that provides affordable counselling and has been there and helped me these past few months.