Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland is a cause very close to my heart, and it is for this reason that, this year, I am taking part in two physically demanding cycles to raise funds for the charity. 

Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland is an independent charity that improves the quality of life for people affected by chest, heart and stroke illness in Scotland. Funds raised contribute towards medical research, influencing public policy, advice and information and support in the community. A wide range of services are offered throughout Scotland to those affected and their families. 

My first cycle of the year will be in August when I will take part in Ride the North, a 281 km cycling challenge over two days through the Grampian Highlands, North Scotland. The cycle will begin in the Aberdeenshire village of Rhynie and continue up towards Inverness via Glenlivet and Tomintoul, finishing at Culloden, just East of Inverness. The second day of cycling will start at Culloden and head back towards the finishing line in Rhynie via Brodie, Forres and Elgin. 

My second and most challenging cycle of the year will take place in November in South East Asia. The 450 km ride will start in Vietnam's Ho Chi Minh City on November 26th and finish at the world heritage site of Angkor Wat in Cambodia on December 2nd. The cycle will be gruelling, on some days cycling up to 100 km on uneven ground and in extreme heat. 

If this is something you would like to support me in, please donate to this cause, I highly appreciate all donations, big or small.