I was Chatting to a friend a few weeks ago about a cycling trip from Montpelier to Barcelona, through the Pyrenees in June, when she asked if I was supporting a charity? No I said - I'd not really thought about that.

Since then, something has happened to a friend of mine which has really made me sit up and take stock of things and perhaps life.

My friend Neil Taylor is 32 years old and recently married to his young wife Alex. only a couple of months ago I received the amazing news that they were expecting their first child - what a wonderful time in a couples life and a period I personally have very fond memories of.

A few weeks ago Neil received news which I'm sure everyone would dread - he had a brain tumour.

Ever the optimist, he faced this head on and went for an operation to remove the tumour. The operation was a great success and Neil was out of hospital only 3 days later with a large scar for his trouble.

Just when we all thought things were looking up, Neil has been hit with the news that this tumour is actually malignant and is stage 3 cancer.

I am now dedicating my bike ride through the Pyrenees to both Neil and also the lady who gave me the idea of cycling for charity.

Her name is Kirsten Mitchell and through her own person experience set up her charity which is named Spoons.

This charity was founded by a small group of parents who have experienced Neonatal Care at both Royal Oldham and North Manchester hospitals.

Spoons offers parent peer support, monthly parent support groups and an online Facebook support forum. Whilst raising awareness of neonatal care and fundraising for vital funds to improve family services and facilities, and improve family centred care.

More info: http://spoons.org.uk/

I hope you will join me in supporting the above 2 charities and giving as much support as possible by way of donations.

The total amount raised will be split 50/50 between both causes.

Please give generously.

Marcel