The Four Nations bike ride is a 1205km tour from Scotland, through the island of Ireland, down the west coast of Wales and then east back to Drapers’ Hall in London. It will take place over 10 days, to raise funds for Diabetes UK. The weather will be very unpredictable as the riders navigate their way south over an ascent higher than Mount Everest.

Why has the Drapers’ Company chosen Diabetes UK as its Master’s Charity this year? Because diabetes is a serious condition that affects increasing numbers of people across the UK, including many children, and Diabetes UK is committed to creating a world in which diabetes can do no harm. Any money you can donate will allow Diabetes UK to continue their vital work supporting children and young people living with diabetes, engaging more children and their families in their tailored events where support, information, advice, and friendship are all readily embraced.

There are over 37,000 children and young people living with type 1 diabetes in the UK alone. If we can achieve our ambitious target of £40,000, we can help support these children living with diabetes, and their families, including parents, carers, siblings, and grandparents who will be able to engage with demonstrably transformative programmes of support. Importantly, these programmes are supported both by healthcare professionals and by many volunteers.

The four riders, Neil Redcliffe, Rej Bhumbra, Piers Thomas and Richard Winstanley will visit numerous organisations with a link to the Drapers Company on their arduous journey south to promote this appeal as they pedal across the Four Nations.

Do please give what you can to support this epic journey for an immeasurably important cause.

Diabetes UK, the Drapers’ Company and the Four-Nation riders all thank you profoundly for your generosity.