This is the 1st year that I'm taking part in the 78 mile Pilgrims Hospices cycle challenge.

It costs £10.5m every year to maintain this essential support to people with life-limiting illnesses, their families and carers.

I have friends that work at the hospice and, very recently a good friend of the family passed away there. As a result I know what is involved in running the hospice as well as what it means to those in the final stages of life as well as their families.

For the last 20 years I have not ridden more than five or ten miles in one go. As a result 78 miles will hurt, however I am very proud to be taking part.

This ride dedicated to John.