2012 marks the 50 anniversary of the Prisoners of Conscience Appeal Fund (PoC) and I am cycling from London to Paris to raise funds for the charity.  For five decades, PoC has provided swift and targeted help to tens of thousands of brave men and women who have suffered appalling treatment after making a stand against repressive governments and regimes.

I have had the privilege of being immersed in this unique organisation for the past 15 years and never cease to admire the courage and resolve of the people we assist.  People like Joab and Shepherd, who are also cycling to Paris with me, along with other PoC friends and supporters.  You can hear directly from Joab and Shepherd on our promotional video here - https://www.justgiving.com/PCAF/Donate

I have never taken on a challenge like this, so I am currently in training to try to ensure I don’t hold anyone up along the route.  I know I will find it really hard going at times, and may feel tired, uncomfortable and sore, but when I do I will simply think of the countless inspiring people I have met in the course of my work, and those who are currently enduring the most horrific ordeals in dark and forgotten prison cells around the world, as well as their families who are left destitute without them.

These are people who are risking life, freedom and exile rather than denying their principles.  I know that focusing on them will get me to Paris and I hope you will be behind us all too. 

Thank you!