My father Michael Almond sadly passed away last year. He was a good man, much loved and respected by all who knew him. He tirelessly organised fund raising and sponsored events such as bike rides, walks and swims to help those less fortunate than himself; both near and far.

While working for the ambulance service he and his close friends and colleagues decided to set up Dewsbury ambulance charities to raise funds for local causes such as guide dogs for the blind, RNLI and leacheamia research to name just a few of many. Last summer the charity celebrated their 30th year by putting on their annual bike ride to Bridlington. I was honoured to take part in this ride as it was held in memory of my father.

I used this occasion to announce that I too would be organising a sponsored cycle ride in memory of my father and that I would be donating the raised funds to two charitirs very close to his heart. Needless to say Dewsbury ambulance charities being one of them.

My ride will take place in April of this year and cover a thousand miles from John o groates in Scotland to Lands end in cornwall. Myself and two friends, Chris Blakeley and Craig Marley will ride this distance over 14 days back to back with the assistance of Neville Oldroyd as our backup driver along the route.

My father himself accomplished this journey no less than three times with his friends, who im happy to say will be joining us along the route to pay their respects. His achievements were many and far reaching. I just hope our efforts over the next few months make him proud.

For more details on dewsbury ambulance charities and the other charities we're fund raising for, please check out my facebook page "A thousand miles. Top to bottom" . On here there will be links to their websites as well as updates on how our training is going and eventually a daily updated blog on the journey itself.

Many thanks for all your donations.

Stephen Almond