I am no cyclist, and before the start of this year the furthest I could make it on my bike was to the local co-op! But fast forward to today, and I am now 6 days away from completing the last bullet on my 60th birthday bucket list: to cycle from Land's End to John O'Groats. 

80 miles a day, for 14 days. Gulp!

I have just finished day nine; a 72 mile cycle from Penrith, entering Scotland via Gretna Green, and now spending the night in Moffat. Tomorrow is another big push up to Edinburgh.

On Monday, my wife Wendy, is heading off to Calais to pick up a Ukrainian family who will be moving in with us. Their house has been destroyed and their village left in ruins.

As you know, the humanitarian situation in Ukraine is increasingly dire and desperate. Millions of people have no safe place to call home. More than 2.5 million have already left Ukraine, while countless more are still trapped underground, taking cover from the shelling, and desperate for a safe escape. Red Cross teams have been working around the clock to get critical care to those who need it most, both in Ukraine and its bordering countries.

This is why I have decided to raise money for The Red Cross Ukraine Crisis Appeal. Graduate Landscapes will also double any donations received, up to a total of £5,000.

Anything you can spare to contribute to this worthwhile cause would be so appreciated. HUGE thanks to everyone that has supported me and donated so far. Thank you.