This July I’ll be taking to two wheels from London to Paris to raise money for Regenerate and their brilliant work with young people and in particular their social enterprise Feel Good.

As many of you know, I’ve done a few of these rides in the past — London to Africa in 2018, Rome to London in 2023, and Venice last year — and somehow managed to haul my expanding frame over mountain ranges, desert and jungle thanks to your support. This ride matters for a different reason.

Regenerate are working to open a second Feel Good coffee shop, creating jobs, training and real opportunities for young people in Roehampton. The ride may be tiring, but it’s nothing compared to the challenges many young people face trying to get into work.

I should also say that my daughter Karis Taylor and my brother‑in‑law Paul Cooper are taking on their first big ride, and they’re fundraising too. So If you know them please support their fundraising effort first but if you’re able to chip in, it will help Regenerate open doors (and a new coffee shop) for young people who deserve every chance to thrive. Thank you for anything you can give.

946,000 young people aged 16-24 in the UK are not in Employment, Education, or Training. Feel Good helps get these young people into work - providing training, mentoring and employment, so that they can grow in confidence and make positive changes in their lives. They're all about seeing potential, getting to know each young person as an individual, and supporting them in a meaningful way.

No matter your background, you should have the opportunity and support to dream big, and achieve success. Every penny you sponsor will help make that happen, as Regenerate work towards opening their 2nd coffee shop this year.