Whilst living together as students Will and I watched a TV programme about a couple of lads trying to break a world record for riding the London Underground and for over ten years we've often discussed the idea of one day taking on a similar challenge ourselves.  Well a couple of months ago after a few beers (and then a few more) we decided to do it and this May we will - as Jamiroquai once said - "go deeper underground" for the day (provided there isn't a tube strike).  While we won't be looking for a world record (it stands at a fast 16 hours 20 mins and 27 seconds) this will definitely be an extreme form of trainspotting, a slightly wacky personal achievement and hopefully a great way to raise money for charity.

There were a few charities we could have done this for; Will is a long time supporter of Different Strokes who support young stroke survivors and for a number of reasons we might have done it for an anorexia or mental health charity but we agreed to raise money for Bloodwise.  In 2006 I met Lauren my wife whose father, Robert Ashley, was already fighting blood cancer.  Rob was an incredibly kind and generous man; a loving husband and supportive father who would do anything for anyone.  When he died in 2015 he asked that instead of flowers, we all donate to Bloodwise so that the fight against Blood Cancer could continue.  Blood Cancer has had a huge impact on my family and thousands of other families across Britain but organisations like Bloodwise are working toward a brighter future.  Your donations will help fund research programmes and support individuals and families living with blood cancer.  In short: if you sponsor two lunatics prepared to spend an entire day on a train you will be making a difference.

Okay, so what is the Tube Challenge I hear you cry?  The Tube Challenge involves visiting all 270 underground stations from Heathrow in the west to Upminster in the east, from High Barnet and Edgware in the north to Morden in the south in a day either on foot or using public transport.  Before we even get going Will and I must meticulously plan our route around London because with so many places to visit it'll be a race against the clock.

Over the next few months we hope to keep you updated on our preparations and on the day we'll be using social media so you can keep in touch with our progress.  One things certain, its going to be a heck of a ride.

Thanks for your support!

John and Will

https://jkandwilltubechallenge.wordpress.com


https://twitter.com/ADayOnTheTube