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In September, we are going way out of our comfort zone (saddle soreness being the primary concern) to ride from London to Paris.

It will involve cycling 300 miles (480 kms) over 5 days with a ferry crossing in the middle. We have undertaken long bike rides before – beer-biking we call it – but nothing on this scale.

We decided to raise funds for a great charity that funds research into potential (currently there are none) cures for Motor Neurone Disease – which my Grandfather passed away with in January.

He was luckily already a grand old age but it is much more common to be diagnosed in your 40s or 50s and life expectancy is 2-3 years.

MND is a progressive neurological condition that affects the nerves responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement. These nerves, called motor neurones, gradually stop working, leading to muscle weakness and wasting. Early symptoms can include muscle weakness in the hands, legs, or feet, slurred speech, and difficulty swallowing. Over time, these symptoms can progress to more severe muscle weakness and paralysis, affecting breathing and swallowing. MND can significantly impact a person's ability to perform everyday tasks, communicate, and breathe.

I knew about the disease previously as a couple of high profile rugby players have fought public battles with it to raise awareness and significant funds. Rob Burrow diagnosed at 37, died at 41 and Doddie Weir, diagnosed at 46, died at 52. The latter’s charity, My Name’5 Doddie Foundation is doing fantastic work and has recently given £1 million each to 4 universities to research into Motor Neurone Disease. See link

The trip is entirely self-funded so every single penny raised will go directly to this worthwhile cause. Each and every donation will be greatly appreciated.

A special thank you to Simon at Bike Scene Specialized in Guisborough for their support.