It is a couple of years since my last enduring charity ride allowing me just enough time to put on some more weight, drop my fitness levels and all but stop cycling on any regular basis.  All that hard work was carefully planned to guarantee this will be an enormous physical and mental challenge surely worthy of your sponsorship – and for such a great cause.

As if the gruelling 100km excursion across challenging terrain (mostly Essex – particularly challenging for a Geordie) wasn't enough I am holding myself out for further ridicule and punishment by attempting to keep pace with my companions and fellow riders Messrs Waddell (10x Ironman competitor) and Hancock (former competitive mountain biker).

Please help me deal with the trepidation I now have by helping me raise a little money for the fabulous charity that is The Princes Trust.