On Wed 21 March Ed, David and I are cycling the 300 miles between Bath and Leyburn in the North Yorkshire Dales for charities close to our hearts. It's all Ed's idea as he said it's beautiful op north in Leyburn, We should be finishing in the Dales on Friday 23rd March evening. It's all a bit Last of the Summer Wine, with added chafing!

Donations go to The UCLH Macmillan Cancer Centre Appeal, who have been taking terrific care of my dear mum.

Over the last three years I have been both humbled and proud of her strength and ability to smile through some exceptionally painful and sapping treatments. The goal has been moved, several times, which is crushing, but she has at each turn, bravely looked her considerable challenges, square in the eye, without self pity or being disheartened. All the nurses and staff adore and admire her kindness and quiet strength, as does her son.

The treatment and care that she has received from UCL has been been most uplifting for her and I am extremely thankful to them.

Mum will be treated at the new UCH Macmillan Cancer centre from April so will also benefit from the final fundraising.

The centre is inspired by America’s cancer day-care centres, which focus on an individualised and holistic approach to the treatment of cancer patients, UCLH is building one of the top cancer centres in Europe. Each floor is designed around the needs of patients with different cancers, including dedicated facilities for teenage cancers, women's health and men's cancers. 

The Macmillan Cancer centre will be linked with the UCL Cancer Institute which is situated directly opposite the site, encouraging un-chartered opportunity for close collaboration between these two prestigious institutions. Together they will form a centre of excellence for cancer. 

If you can contribute I would be very grateful and the money will perpetuate the type of research and care I have seen work so well.