So the fact that I took up cycling to “slim down and get a little fitter” appears to show some signs of success. From the floundering, nearly fifty-year old, male struggling to lift myself from the floor without an associated huff-and-puff at every attempt, to the vastly improved healthier less floundering male, I have to say I’m more than a tad chuffed.

There is a long story but let’s get to the chase. I’m the first to admit, it’s been a long hard struggle but one that has massively improved my life and my outlook. One that has been full of personal challenges. One that started with a first 8k ride 18 months ago which I still recall today – detesting every cyclical and rocking side-to-side motion.

Now is payback time. Time for a real challenge.

I’ve been watching what I eat for those 18 months too so the irony that I may have taken too big a bite for my next challenge is one metaphor I really hope I’m ready for. I only have to think about it and my dormant butterflies climb aboard pogo sticks acting as a rather good laxative it has to be said....

I have been accepted onto a ride for Help For Heroes. A 160k ride taking in the Olympic ball breaker that is Box Hill. I’ve never been anywhere near that limit. I am officially wetting myself!!! That said, I can think of no greater honour than to be in the presence of such brave service men and women. To support them where I can.

I really do need your help. I need your support, your words, your good thoughts and your prayers but also every nagging penny pushing me up that hill and to the end!

Please, please, please, just give up one day using the car, having that morning coffee treat, or the Friday night vino and donate to this incredible cause. Hold back on that ‘must have’ you’ve been saving for, for just a short while or empty that old coin jar just this once and donate to this incredible cause. I promise you that every single penny goes to H4H.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Thank you

Peace and love

Will