Four years on from the ascent of Mont Ventoux, the Benevolent peloton will this year be hitting the roads of Tuscany. Scene of one of cycling’s most iconic one day races over recent times, which is named after the chalky white roads that cover the region, the Strade Bianchi will provide us with an entirely new challenge. One day turning to near mud in the rain, or the next leaving riders covered head to toe in dust in dry conditions, all the time they are rarely flat, but either descending treacherous, technical downhill sections, or climbing gradients of up to 20%.

The ride will see a dozen riders, many now veterans of several Benevolent rides through France, Spain and Portugal, cover over 400km in 4 days from the 25th to 28th June, finishing on the steep cobbled climb through the old city walls of Siena.

All of this is to raise funds for The Benevolent, the Wine and Spirit trade’s charity, which having been fortunate enough to spend my entire working life in this industry is one very close to me. Find out how they really do make a difference with practical support for people who work in all parts of the drinks trade by visiting www.thebenevolent.org.uk, including most recently through their “Here to Help” campaign, a mental health support programme.

Thank you from me, the rest of the team, and from The Benevolent for visiting my page and for all your support.

Chris