On Monday March 22nd, 2010, I will be beginning a 2000-mile cycle ride through each and every one of the English counties in a bid to raise as much money as possible for the fantastic charity Brunelcare, a Bristol-based organisation which promotes independence for older people with specific expertise in Dementia care.

The route will take me along approximately 2080 miles of National Cycle Network routes, beginning in Lydd (Kent) and ending in Ross-on-Wye (Herefordshire) 35 days later. 

In 2007, I completed the London marathon in aid of Asthma UK (as I am a sufferer). I wanted my next challenge not only to be tougher but to raise money for a smaller and more local charity. I chose Brunelcare for two reasons: firstly I was born and raised in the West-country, where the charity is based; secondly, my grandmother suffered from Dementia so I know what is involved when looking after and caring for sufferers.

I will be blogging every day (as far as possible) on my journey and you can find it here: http://englandcycle.blogspot.com. I am on twitter (@cycleengland) for the days when I am unable to update blogs and photos and I'm also making a video diary (including the use of a helmet-cam) of my efforts in order to record the event in more detail.

If you feel able to support me in my endeavours then please give generously. It might be a cliche, but every penny counts and will make a huge difference. 

Thank you so much for your support, and see you on the road!

James x