Last year as the dawn patrol we cycled across England from Kent to Somerset from dawn to dusk, over 200 miles in a day. This year we're the col patrol, cycling from Geneva to Nice via a 12 iconic climbs over 6 days. The total distance is 600km, the total climb, 18,216m (just shy of 60,000 feet), with the highest point 2,716m it won't be a stroll in the park but we are training hard and looking forward to the challenge.

We are doing it because we love cycling, the mountains, French food and wine but if we can raise money for these deserving causes too, it will make the trip all the more worthwhile.

It will be hard work for us but not nearly as hard as having to sleep rough as a homeless teenager or suffering from depression or other debilitating metal illnesses. So please do give generously and we will keep you posted on our journey, the highs and the lows as we try to push ourselves beyond what any of us has tried before.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Thanks very much, The Wedmore Wheelers Col Patrol - Haute Route 2017