Last autumn I lost both my parents - within 3 weeks of each other. My dad was the most amazing man - thoughtful, kind and very bloody minded. Riddled with cancer and suffering from dementia he still gave great hugs. My mum - colourful, beautiful and a whirlwind of ideas and energy - despite being in constant pain - died after a car crash a week after we'd buried him.

So I'm doing this bike ride for them. For the energy and joy they brought to my life and because they'd be so proud of me. Cycling 100 miles isn't easy. It's the marathon of cycling. But I'm going to do it. I'm going to fit in training with all the other things that have to be done when you have young kids. And I'm doing it because I know all the hands on good that Age UK West Sussex does. Because I work for them. And because one of the last things I remember my mum saying was: I'm looking forward to hearing about the great plans you've got for Age UK West Sussex. Well this is it. Us all riding Velo South and raising loads of money is it.

My parents were lucky, they had each other and lots of good friends and family, but there are thousands of older people in West Sussex who are lonely and alone. They need help right here and right now.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to Age UK West Sussex. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for Age UK as well.

So please dig deep and support this brilliant cause. And help older people in West Sussex right here, right now.

Thank you