So it all started late last year with the ‘cycle to work’ scheme when I decided to purchase a road bike. 

I was then easily convinced to join the ‘Ride For Hope’ charity ride by my friend, Gareth Cox, who rode this event last year. Considering it’s been about 30 years since I have ridden a proper road bike, signing up for a 270 mile ride seemed daunting, but at the same time, thrilling to participate in a lifetime achieving event which also aims to raise £35,000 plus for a local cause, The Hope Centre, in Northampton.

The ride is entitled 'The Troops Are Coming Home' to commemorate a 100 years since the end of World War 1. 

We will be riding over 4 days starting off in Ypres in Belgium and riding to Middelburg, Holland on the first day, then to the Hook of Holland on Day 2, overnight ferry to the UK then from Harwick to Cambridge on Day 3, then finally back to Northampton on the last day.

The Hope Centre tackles poverty and homelessness. Their work helps people experiencing the most acute problems of disadvantage, exclusion and marginalisation. As well as giving practical support, they focus on helping people to help themselves, provide support and services that will enable individuals to take back control of their own lives, and campaign with them against the causes of their disadvantage.

Thanks for taking time to visit my page and please give generously, please follow my journey on this page as we make updates throughout the year.

James McGlade