On August the 10th 2007 I along with 26 others will cycle the best part of 2000km from Canterbury Cathedral to the Vatican in Rome.

We will be following a route called the Via Francigena which dates back to AD990. It is the way that the 27th Archbishop of Canterbury, Sigeric went when he visited Pope John XV. Sigeric wrote about his trip and this survives to today.

The ride includes a 32km hill climb of nearly 9000ft over the Alps via the Grand Saint Bernard Pass and it is quite possible that there will be snow at the top. As I am not a professional cyclist or athelete covering 130km (80miles) per day and with temperatures likely to go above 35c in Italy this journey represents a serious challenge.

Many people have said that I / we are quite mad to attempt such a feat - but the charities that I am raising money for are great causes and we will be in Rome on 26th August!

If you would like to more more about the Ride why not visit the website?

http://www.canterbury-cathedral.org/RomeBikeRide.htm

If you would like to support their efforts by making a donation on this website your generosity would be much appreciated.

Donating through this site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Save Canterbury Cathedral will receive your money faster and, if you are a taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.

Many thanks for your support.

Paul Barrett