A few months ago a good friend told us she was organising a 4 day London to Amsterdam bike ride with her husband, just for the hell of it. Around 300 miles. No charity obligation involved. Just because. And did we want to be involved? At the time I didn't own a road bike, barely rode my third-hand mountain bike and hadn't ridden on the road for about 20 years. Perhaps due to a mid-life crisis on my part, we signed up.

Initially I wasn't going to raise money through this ride. But recent events have made me re-think that - so I'm doing this in memory of Katie Winslett. 

I only met Katie twice, the first time being at our wedding (she was the then-girlfriend-later-to-be-wife of a friend of mine), but it was evident straight away that she was one of life's good people - an instantly likeable, fun, friendly nurse. Unfortunately, not long after we met, she was diagnosed with cancer and although she and her husband Pete fought it with unbelievable courage and strength she unfortunately lost her battle in March this year, while at Trinity Hospice. She was 34.

Stories like Katie's put things into perspective, and as much as this ride is going to be a massive challenge for me (and I haven't done anywhere near enough training) a good dose of Taurean stubbornness on my part and any financial donation you would be kind enough to spare on your part will massively help me along my way! 

The challenge starts on Sunday 4th May with a 100km training ride around the Isle of Wight. Then we ride to Amsterdam from Saturday 24th - Tues 28th May.

Thank you very much for any help you can give.

Jo (and Andy)