I have been inspired by my grandad to tackle the Battle of Britain Paris to London Brompton Bike Ride this September, travelling 240 miles on a Brompton bike to raise money for the RAF Benevolent Fund.

My grandad, Thomas McNerney, now 97, served in the RAF as an engineer (one of the “backroom boys”) fitting engines for the iconic Spitfire and Hurricane aircraft during the Second World War and serving across England, North Africa and Italy.

As many of you know I am also a fan and owner of a Brompton bike and it is fitting that a modern icon of British design such as the Brompton should be involved in our commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.