At 5.30pm on 7^th July 2015 I will be leaving Trafalgar Square in London  with the aim of being at the Eiffel Tower by 5.30pm on 8^th July 2015. The idea is to get from one place to the other using my legs and a bike.

For some this might not be a big challenge but for those that do not know me I had my left ankle permanently fused 3 years ago (2012). After 9 months of recovery, being completely sedentary, eating my wife’s lovely cakes, I decided to take up cycling. I am really still a novice. 2013 saw me complete the London to Brighton ride and in 2014 I managed my first ever 100 miles in a day cycle ride.

I will be cycling solo with no support, no one carrying spare parts for me and picking up food and drink where I can along the way.

This year I have decided to try to support a Charity. Two reasons, firstly, to keep me motivated. Secondly, and more importantly, because the Charity is very close to home.

For those that don’t know I have a severely disabled little boy, Edward. He is 6 now but suffers from severe Autism and Epilepsy. Every day is a challenge and the people who look after him all deserve the highest praise. During the school term he attends a Special School (Addington) not far away. During the holidays he still requires specialist care and this puts an enormous strain on him and the family.

We rely on the specialist care provided by the Thumbs Up Club during school holidays. Thumbs Up Club is a registered charity. The official charity name is Activity Club for Children with Special Needs (Berkshire) and Thumbs Up Club is the working name.

The club has a very good reputation for the high quality of stimulating, varied and engaging activities provided together with a high regard and level of awareness for the safety and dignity of children.

You can find out more here: http://www.thumbsupclub.co.uk

Without the excellent care these people provide, life would be that much harder than it already is for us and so many other families in the area.

For the event, I am picking up all costs myself. I have paid all ferry costs, food and the train costs for the journey home so every penny contributed goes directly to the charity.

Every donation is appreciated no matter how small. During the event I will try and keep everyone updated on progress and any adventures on the way. I will send out details of how to keep in touch closer to the time.

Thanks again

Si