I'm Steve and I'm a joiner contracted to Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust. I cover Stepping Hill and Tameside Hospitals and the clinics in Stockport and Tameside. I will be cycling over 100 miles, with over 10,000 feet of ascent around Saddleworth and West Yorkshire, taking in Cragg Vale and the iconic Holme Moss, on Saturday the 18th August 2018 in aid of The Matthew Nicholls Foundation. Although I'm not a novice cyclist this is way out of my comfort zone and will require me to do lots of training.

The Matthew Nicholls Foundation has been set up by Matt's parents, Rachel and Rob. Rachel is a friend and colleague of mine who has worked on Norbury Ward, Stepping Hill Hospital for 13 years. In July 2017 Matt, aged 24, completely unexpectedly took his own life. I didn't personally know Matt but Rachel has always talked proudly about his natural music and song-writing skills. He was living and working in London and sharing his talent and love of music through musical performance. Matt had so much more to give and therefore The Matthew Nicholls Foundation has been set up to enable young people to develop their musical skills in Matt's name.

A message from Rachel and Rob - "Matthew was a talented musician. When he was young he took all opportunities given to him to develop his skills and confidence to share his talent. We believe that all young people, no matter what their background, should have the opportunity to access playing a musical instrument for self-development and for the pleasure of the wider community. We have set up this trust to provide opportunities and financial support for young people to develop musical skills, especially those with financial and social barriers. We will be working in collaboration with local services to ensure that young people with life challenges and musical potential benefit from the money raised".

By making a donation you will be giving me encouragement and motivation to train hard over the next few months and achieve the bike ride in August 2018. You will also be supporting Rachel and Rob to keep Matt's name to live on through helping others. Thank you.