In an effort to lose some weight, improve my fitness and put my newly aquired spare time to good use, I have hung up my pilot's bars and grabbed my handlebars, along with my friend Suzi, to ride the South Downs Way for charity.

This event is organised by the Argus Appeal (whose aims you can see opposite) and will take place on the 8th, 9th & 10th of May. I have already lost 1 stone since starting my training and hope to have lost another 7lbs before the event starts.

We will be cycling from Winchester to Eastbourne a distance of around 105 miles. But it's not the milage that's the killer - it's the hills! Over the ride (I'm told) we will have climbed around 10,000ft!

It would be great to raise a good amount for the charity, so please be as generous as you can.

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: The Argus Appeal 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 your support,

John.