Death Valley, in the Mojave Desert, features the lowest and driest locations in North America …And the hottest. At 56.7 °C it was just 2°C lower than the Libyan world record.

It was named by an unlucky group of miners who crossed the valley in 1849. They barely survived. "Good-bye, Death Valley," one of the miners said as they staggered out of the desert. But heat & dehydration are only two of the dangers. There are regular deaths from flash floods, abandoned mine shafts and, of course, rattlesnakes, scorpions, black widow spiders...

From the 5th to the 12th November 2011 Rich Bates, one of the partners of Bunkers Solicitors, Hove, will be cycling the length of this inhospitable environment to raise funds for the Edward Starr Charitable Trust. The Trust exists to improve the lives of children in the UK and around the world by providing project based funding. Working with individuals and charities, the Trust aims to benefit children through education, healthcare, development or simply fun.

The Cycle of Death will be gruelling – around 270 miles in 5 days, ascending nearly 17,500 feet and all in blistering heat, followed by freezing nights…

Any support for the Cycle of Death would be greatly appreciated – whether sponsorship or encouragement. You can follow Rich’s progress on Twitter @brightlawyer, Facebook and http://deadmencycling.blogspot.com     

Every child deserves the chance of a safe, healthy and happy life. You can the help the Edward Starr Charitable Trust’s fantastic work by supporting Rich in making it out of Death Valley…ALIVE!

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