In September of 2008, I  cycled with a group of friends from Le Puy in France to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, a dstance of approx. 1500 kms.

Prompted by my daughter Laura, who had been moved by the sight of children begging for water in Kenya, I resolved, in some small way, to try to do something to help.

The response we have had to date has been incredible, and collectively we have raised in excess of our target of £35,000. However the project we are supporting has a three year life span, and will continue to require funding throughout this period.

The project is the Mongu Development Project in Western Zambia, a particularly impoverished area in which there are few clean water sources and sanitation is poor. For example it is estimated that less than 4% of the rural population has access to usable latrines. The aim of the project is to improve the health of rural communities through the provision of clean water. The first year of this 3 year project should benefit 15,400 people in 20 communities and 10 schools. By the end of the third year 46,000 people should be enjoying clean water.  

So while the bike ride is now "old hat" and a pleasant memory, the need for funding is as strong as ever. To those who have already donated so generously, please accept my very sincere thanks. If on the other hand, you fall into the category of "meant to do something about it, but never got round to it, can I assure you that it is never too late?!

Or if this is a cause which you would like to continue to support, your donations will always be very gratefully received.