Having got back into cycling after a 12 year lay off, I bought a new bike and set of lycra in 2010 and have been cycling into the wind since.

A friend drew my attention to the Coast to Coast challenge, a mass cycle ride that goes from Whitehaven to Sunderland over the course of a weekend (that's 140 miles). More info here

Having decided to do it, it makes sense to raise a little money for charity and as Newcastle has been my home for the past 14 years I wanted to do a little for the community that has made me so welcome.

Hadrian School caters for up to 125 primary aged children in Newcastle Upon Tyne who have severe, profound and complex learning, sensory and communication difficulties. More info here.

UPDATE:

Having been in contact with the school, they have sent me this further information regarding the school and it's current fund raising needs:

 

The Friends of Hadrian School are a Registered Charity with the sole purpose of supporting the work of Hadrian School by fundraising for specialist play and therapy resources such as sensory rooms, adapted playground apparatus, computers, physiotherapy equipment and Residential holidays. Additionally, we provide opportunities for children, staff and families to socialize and support each other by arranging ‘Fun’ days, theatre trips etc.

 

Hadrian is a primary school for children across the whole city of Newcastle Upon Tyne who have severe and profound learning disabilities and associated physical and medical difficulties. We have up to 125 children on our roll, from age 2 to 11 years. Despite the challenges and obstacles our pupils encounter, Hadrian is a vibrant, happy community where children can learn to become as independent as possible, whatever their level of development, in an environment which encourages confidence, self-esteem and dignity.

 

All monies raised will go towards our ambitious goal of creating a new, inclusive outdoor play area for our youngest pupils to enjoy.