I thought it was long overdue that I had a crack at another bike ride to raise money for the Charlie Watkins Foundation.

I think you know from previous efforts that Charlie sadly took his own life in March 2017, aged only 22, having never really recovered from the tragic loss of his mother aged 9. The Charlie Watkins Foundation has been set up to provide a “Samaritan type” service for young people, particularly of university age, who are going through mental health struggles and well-being considerations.

This year I thought I should ride my bike from Rome to Florence – it sounded pretty! It's a modest 100 kilometres per day for five days and the climbing is quite extensive and sees you climb roughly the height of Everest (8500 meters) over the five days.

Any support you could give would be most gratefully received and appreciated in advance!

Thank you so much for your consideration.

All the best

John