I trust you are safe and well. The last two years have been challenging and war was the last thing we wanted to see. Sadly, we only need to drive one thousand miles from the Kent coast to reach the Ukrainian border and the tragedy that has unfolded there with millions fleeing the fighting. Naturally, our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with all the innocent lives caught up in this humanitarian crisis.

Being shocked and feeling powerless in front of this mountain of suffering, my frustration has been growing. To answer this, I plan to cycle 420 km in 4 days around the borders of Kent in aid of Save the Children, who are helping the children and refugees of Ukraine. I am hoping that a number of friends will join me for a day end of April or for the complete loop (hence this team page).

For this we have designed a new cycling route all around Kent which should be safe and enjoyable to ride. It will be the first time someone cycles our full route which tracks closely to the Kentish borders. However well-trained, cycling 100km a day will test our endurance as we will carry our own panniers, making the 3,600m of elevation over 4 days challenging. Kent is hilly. To achieve this, we are / I am hoping for fair weather and would warmly welcome your support.

Reading what charities recommend, donating cash is still the most effective way to help. With cash charities and refugees can buy what they need. I am conscious that many of you have donated already, but bear in mind that these people have lost everything and are scared about their future and their loved ones.

On their behalf a big thank you for your generosity and for bearing with me this far, every pound you give to Save the Children, will contribute to The Disasters Emergency Committee’s appeal.

Jean-Pierre (aka JP)

PS 1: since writing this page, we have now completed our tour and are delighted with the support we have received. The top photo shows Mike the road-master who took part on Day 1 and Paul who completed the tour with me.