As a club cyclist I wanted to set a stretch goal. Originally my plan was to ride the Coast to Coast route there and back non stop. Having done this over 2 days last year, I have upped the challenge and have entered the National 24 Hour Time Trial based in East Sussex. I am aiming to at least go past the 300 mile mark and have a chance of cracking 400 miles if the conditions are favourable.

In the past I have supported main stream charities, but for this adventure I wanted to help a green charity. Whilst I am not a green warrior or tree hugger, I love our countryside and would like to see it preserved for the future. I am also new to gardening and have had so much fun growing and eating my own produce. I love the fact that my veg hasn't been coated in chemicals and they taste better than anything you can buy in the shops.

Garden Organic is a really interesting charity. Their activities cover the types of research and development that you might expect, but go far wider. I really like the way they are helping people to get involved in growing and even do community based work for disadvantaged people.

There are realistic alternatives to harmful pesticides and fertilisers and I want to do my bit to help Garden Organic lead the way.

One further point to note for cyclists is the HQ at Ryton Gardens makes a wonderful tea/lunch stop!

So please dig deep (great pun) and donate now. Every penny will go to Garden Organic as I am covering my expenses and those of my support crew.