Originating from ‘Oop North (Nr Wigan), I’ve now spent most of my life down in t’Midlands, originally Coventry where I met my wife Kim and now based in Sapcote, Leics with our two teenage daughters Maria (17) and Megan (15) where I work for automotive supplier DENSO as a Software Project Manager and avidly follow the Leicester Tigers.

Coming late to the sport of cycling over the last 5 years, Rugby injuries greatly restricted involvement in other sports, but mainly through the encouragement of my cycling-mad brother-in-law to help achieve his goals of conquering some of the notable mountains of the Tour de France. Through 2 Tours in the Alps and the Pyrenees, Alpe d’Huez, Col du Galibier and Col du Tormalet became my greatest cycling achievements …….. of course, until now with the huge challenge that now befronts us.

Apart from the huge personal challenge of the UK’s Longest Ride, the most poignant aspect will be the tribute paid to Macmillan Cancer Support and the invaluable service that they provide, which has been so appreciated and respected on a personal level through the loss of my Mum to cancer 7 years ago and as recently as November last year when my Mother-in-Law sadly lost her battle with this horrible disease.

Everything that can be achieved through this event will be so vital to ensuring that this noble cause continues to provide support and comfort to the families of those sadly affected by cancer.

So please dig deep and donate now.