77 year old husband Ian, and daughter Samantha, to ride from Land’s End to John O’Groats in 21 days from 1st July 2026 to raise money for St Margaret’s Hospice, Somerset. In memory of Jane Phillips, who was looked after by the wonderful team at St Margarets Hospice.

💔 Jane’s Story in Ian’s words

My wife Jane was a devoted mother and grandmother, with a strong personality and a deep love for her family. Nothing made her happier than spending time with our grandchildren.

In the final 6–7 months of her life, as she battled terminal cancer, Jane was cared for by her family at home, and also by St Margaret’s Hospice in Taunton.

When her illness progressed, Jane spent several weeks in the hospice itself; a place of calm, dignity, and kindness, where every room looks out over beautifully maintained gardens. Later, she came home, and the hospice nurses came to her, in time more often, more urgently, and always with compassion.

Their care was nothing short of extraordinary.

One moment will stay with me forever.

Back in November 2025, Jane developed a serious infection. Three paramedics arrived, followed by a doctor and nurse from the hospice. We were told she was unlikely to survive the night.

But through the skill, calmness, and determination of that hospice team, they managed to pull her through.

Because of them, Jane had more time.

She was able to enjoy Christmas with her family, and precious weeks beyond that we will always treasure.

In recent weeks, Jane sadly lost her battle with cancer.

But the care she received from St Margaret’s was, quite simply, the best care imaginable — at any price.

And yet, it cost us nothing.

👨‍👧‍👦 A Family Effort

We will not be doing this alone.

My son Justin will be supporting us along the way, organising logistics, driving the support van, and making sure we have somewhere to rest each night, alongside joining us on the bike whenever work allows.

We hope our grandchildren will join us for parts of the journey closer to home. I am especially looking forward to a cheerful wave from my grandchildren Lucy, William and Hoge as we pass by.

We also have the full support of our wider family, including Jane’s sisters — Lindsay, Sue, Kim and Jackie and their partners.

This is truly a family effort, inspired by one extraordinarily special woman.

🚴‍♂️ The Challenge

Although neither of us are experienced cyclists, we have chosen a demanding and scenic 1100 mile route. This will be the greatest physical challenge either of us have undertaken. But it feels small compared to what Jane went through, and to what so many families face every single day.

Starting at Land’s End,

through the South West peninsular,

through the Brecon Beacons

Over the Cambrian Mountains

And across Snowdonia

Before rejoining the traditional route north towards John O’Groats.

We expect the journey to take around 21 days, including some well needed rest days along the way.

❤️ Why We Are Doing This

People don’t often think about hospices, until they need one.

And when you do, you realise just how important they are.

As far as we are concerned, there is a no more deserving cause.

This ride is our way of saying thank you.

It is also our hope that the money we raise will allow St Margaret’s to continue helping other families, just like ours. To provide comfort, dignity, and precious time when it matters most.

🙏 How You Can Help

We are aiming to raise £15,000 for St Margaret’s Hospice Care.

If you are able to support us—no matter how small the amount—it will make a real difference.

Every donation will help ensure that other families receive the same incredible care, compassion, and dignity that Jane did.

💬 Final Words

This ride is for Jane.

For her strength, her love, and the joy she brought to all of us.

And it is for the remarkable people at St Margaret’s Hospice, who gave us more time, more memories, and more comfort than we ever thought possible.

Thank you for taking the time to read our story—and thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for all of your support.

Ian, Sam and Justin