I have signed up to take part in a 10for10 challenge to raise money for a local charity by cycling between 10 pubs in different parts of my constituency. The challenge was set by Guy Opperman, MP for Hexham, to mark 10 years since he was diagnosed with a brain tumour after collapsing in the House of Commons.

I really wanted to do this challenge because charities have been very hard hit by the pandemic and have been unable to organize their usual fundraising events. I’ve picked April 10th just two days before the pubs open for outdoor hospitality, to show my support for our many wonderful hostelries which have also been in and out of lockdown over the past 12 months.

I estimate that the ride will take me at least 7 hours and I want to invite pub landlords to join me for part of the route and I am extending the invitation to constituents to be part of the fundraising effort in whatever way they can. Victor Buchanan from the White Swan at Pickering will be joining me and Steve Collins has volunteered to provide help in the support van.

I have nominated Ryedale Special Families, based in Old Malton, which does wonderful work to support families with disabled children as my charity.