Growing up in Sussex I’ve always wanted to do the London to Brighton cycle ride but never had the courage: when I was offered the opportunity to raise money for Pan’s 40th year celebrations I leapt at the chance.

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Pan works to bring the healing power of the arts to those who have suffered trauma, displacement, exploitation and social injustice. I’m proud to support the work they do and delighted to help raise money towards opening their new venue - the first ever Pan Centre.

Pan’s amazing team have worked hard to secure their new space but they need our help to launch it: they’re raising £25,000 to complete refurbishment of the new venue and ready it for opening the doors.

Although I’m delighted to be swapping my 1mi school-run dashes with two squirmy passengers for the open road and a race bike I’m slightly concerned by the prospect of those sneaky hills over the South Downs: I do not have the physique for hill climbing!

I’ll be joined on the ride by Pan staff, participants and partners, together with thousands of other riders taking part for other small charities across the country.

Please help support this amazing cause, and power me up the really big hill at mile 45!