I was diagnosed with MS back in June 2003 and whilst my symptoms remain stable, I need to challenge myself to raise money for a fantastic facility called Woodlands.

Although based in York, the main catchment area for Woodlands is as far North as Newcastle, South to Sheffield, West to Bradford and East to Hull. Having said that they do accept patients from all over the country so it is an invaluable facilty for MS patients nationwide.

The care they provide is not only fantastic, it provides MS sufferers and their families with a lifeline and respite from this horribly debilitating condition.

I plan to cycle from London to Geneva starting on the 8th of September and finishing on the 16th September. The ride is around 675 miles in total and should take us 8 days to complete. There are some serious hills along the way, culminating in a climb up to 1300 metres over the Jura Mountains into Geneva....not for the faint hearted.

I wont be alone as my best mate Pete Bates will be with me, cycling for the MS Trust. Thanks to him not only for sharing the pain but for raising money for the MS Trust.

Why am I doing this ? Well it is simple really. There are many MS sufferers in the UK who would love the chance to ride a bike, never mind ride one 675 miles. I consider myself very lucky so whilst my condition allows, then I must ride that bike for all the people who would love to but sadly cannot. My phylosophy is that I have MS but it does not have me!