I am very average but occasionally I get inspiration to try and be better than average. Macmillan nurses have provided that inspiration in the past with the wonderful care they gave our family during my sisters fight against cancer, they really are amazing at what they do.

I am trying to make myself better by shedding enough weight to take part in a number of challenging rides to raise money for Macmillan.

First up is the Dragon ride which is 223km around the Brecon Beacons in Wales. With over 3,600m of climbing this is going to be tough. It takes place on Sunday 9th June and it would be great if I could raise £300 before then to spur me on.

The second, and most challenging event is on the 21st July. The L'etape de Tour in France is a mountain stage of the Tour de France, climbing over 4,500m in 135km it is essentially pedalling uphill for a day in the Alps.

Thirdly, on the 18th August I will be taking part in Tour de Mon, which is over 163km, climbing over 1,500m all around Anglesey.

Lastly I'm off to Harrogate in September to take part in the UCI World Championships sportive (which sounds like I'm competing in something great but I'm not - it is just another long ride!)

I am riding all of these races as 'average man' to highlight the fact that anyone can do this with a bit of focus and effort.

If you would like to follow me you can do so on:

Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/29799880

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/averagemanuk/

facebook: https://www.facebook.com/averagemanuk/

Please give generously peeps.

All the best,

Gareth