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Few people can be unaware of the devasting earthquake and tsunami which hit northern Japan on 11 March. The huge quake, the worst in recorded history, caused an horrific tidal wave, which has virtually wiped-out many communities. The tsunami is known to have killed more than 20,000 people, a total which is still rising. Hundreds of thousands are now homeless, amongst whom are an army of orphaned children who desparately need our help.
This summer, in June, a team of 4 of us are setting out to raise much needed funds for Save the Children who are providing urgent relief for the humanitarian disaster. The team of 4, Paul and Thomas Forshaw, Wallace Ascham and Alastair Lefley, plans to cycle the length of Britain from Land's End to John O'Groats. We hope to raise significant sums of aid money for the Save the Children Japan disaster relief.
More than 387,000 people have been forced from their homes by the disaster, including around 74,000 children. They are now living in evacuation centres, and could be living in them for months. Many children are suffering greatly, with there being reports of children being unable to sleep, having nightmares, and being haunted by memories of what happened to them.
"There are many unfortunate children suffering after the effects of the Tsunami", says Paul. "There are the immediate effects of homelessness and in many cases the loss of parents. But there are also the repeated haunting nightmares. Our fundraising will hopefully add to the help for these terribly unfortunate children."
The cycle ride will be extremely tough. The route involves ten arduous days of riding 100 miles per day. There are many hills to be climbed in addition to the significant distances.
"Its much further than I ever ridden before. I haven't ever even ridden 100 miles in one day", laughs Alastair. "It is Cornwall and Devon which I believe will be the toughest. There seems to be very little flat terrain: we'll constantly be ascending and descending hills and valleys. It will be exceedingly tough."
An interesting route has been chosen. It takes in some of the beautiful British countryside: from the rugged Dartmoor tors, a navigation of the Lake District followed by some island hopping to Arran, Mull and Skye.
"It is a fantastic route", muses Wallace. "I've travelled around the world, and still find the West Coast of Scotland one of my favourite places. I'm very ready for the challenge."
The team have really joined together to combine their effort. Wallace's wife Kathy has offered to drive the support vehicle for the first few days. Paul has his son Tom taking part too, along with girlfriend Claire helping as driver.
"I think they're all mad", says Alastair's wife Deb. "It's great that they're setting out to do this ride for charity, but it would be far more than I could ever manage."
For the present, we're concentrating on the training. How we will cope with the distance, and the inevitable saddle sores remains to be seen.
Please help us to help the children of Japan. Please Save the Children.
Thanks.
