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The Merlin Centre provides therapy for people with Multiple Sclerosis, has been open for just over two years and in that short time has improved the lives of many suffers. In order to provide therapy for less well off people constant fundraising is needed. This will be my second major challenge for The Merlin Project, my last raised over £6000.

Last year I rode a Royal Enfield in the himalayan foothills with six other fundraisers. It was such a fantastic undertaking I have decided I need to do something more. Now I intend to ride the mountains of South Island New Zealand to the Franz Joseph Glacier. By the time we go I will be 74 years old. This is my story . It begins with two heart attacks in 1997 and 1978. Two years later after a good recovery I cycled 850 miles unsupported through France and Spain raising money to re-equip the hospital gymn. That's it, done my bit I thought, until I saw a charity event " Ride the Nile " for Mencap and took part. There were 70 of us and by the end of the trip I was "Event" hooked. That was 2002. Since then I have climbed Mount Fuji and Macchu Picchu and road the himalayan foothills.

Now through 2012 as a 10th Anniversary I intend to raise £10000 in Sponsorship to Ride the mountains of South Island New Zealand. I will be riding a modern motorcycle this time! The highlight of the trip will be The Franz Joseph Glacier at almost 9000 feet above sea level and will be part of a circular tour of most of South Island. This will take place January 2013 after completion of the fund raising. I will be escorted by a campervan, providing accomodation and carrying all my personal gear. The trip will be completed not long before my 75th birthday. Today a milestone has been reached and I am now past the £2000 mark, still a long way to go but progress. Almost up to 25% now. Hope to pass it this weekend. Over the 50% mark now and plans are just about in place for the trip. Flight, accommodation and bike sorted, just the daily journey details to do.

Contact the Merlin Centre on 01726 885530 www.merlinproject.org.uk or me on francisajoak@msn.com for details.