My crazy 375km sponsored bike ride from Snowdonia to Cardiff is over. Despite dehydration issues in the 104F heat of the first day, never-ending long and steep climbs on the second day, more huge climbs (and legs now like jelly and a sore bum) on the third day, I made it to the finish line. It was very tough but with your generous support and encouraging messages (here and on social media), I lugged my 57-year-old, bulky frame up and over 18,000 ft of hills and mountains in the beautiful Welsh countryside. 

But here's the numbers that really matter: with over 100 supporters, I've already raised over £14,000. And that's before any gift matching from William Reed kicks in. So huge thanks to friends and family, neighbours, industry executives and associates, work colleagues (and Kevin's mum and dad), not forgetting Anonymous (who made three donations). 

But I don't want to stop here. If you've not already made a donation it would mean a huge amount to me if you did. In conjunction with the other 80 or so riders who undertook the challenge, we've already hit the £100,000 target for this brilliant charity and are now agonisingly close to the £150,000 mark.  

GroceryAid helps out key workers in the food and drink industry who've hit upon hard times, financially, emotionally, mentally. They've shown extraordinary commitment and bravery in coming to work throughout the pandemic to keep food on the nation's table in its hour of greatest need. But there's been a toll. Since the pandemic, GroceryAid has seen a 55% increase in applications for financial support, with crisis grants paid out up by 87%. What's more, a lot of the help has been needed for shopworkers who've been attacked just for doing their job - with abuse and violence doubling since the pandemic. 

It was knowing that your generous sponsorship was helping this charity that kept me going in some fairly dark hours in the trip. So if you haven't already, please give generously, or what you can afford. William Reed, the company I work for, has kindly agreed to match fund any donations I receive. So for £1 you donate, I'll raise £2. And if you check the Gift Aid box the charity receives another 25%. So there's a powerful accelerator on any contributions.  

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, the money will be sent directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Thanks again to everyone who's supported me on this adventure. And thanks in anticipation for those of you who haven't got round to it yet. 

Best wishes, 

Adam

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