I always imagined that national charities like Barnardo's didn't need my help. 

It was only when I met the workers at our local Barnardo's branch last year that I understood.   National charities rely on a network of local branches, where local needs can be assessed and met. I was amazed at the difference a little extra extra money could make to the people at the grassroots.

Unfortunately, local authority funding cuts had forced our local Barnardo's branch to close their purpose-built children’s centre and cut back on their help to vulnerable children and families. They needed money, and their staff explained to me how even a small sum could be made to count.

So I came up with the idea of Biking for Barnardo’s

I planned this fundraising motorbike tour last year and had to postpone it - but the charity ball I promoted to launch the tour still went ahead, and raised £4,000 for our local Crystal Palace branch of Barnardo's. This enabled them to buy new play equipment and to refurbish and re-open their children's centre last year.

This year the bike ride is happening!  Between 15th and 19th August I will visit 15 QualitySolicitors  firms around England who work closely with Barnardo’s and join in the Barnardo’s will schemes.  Along the way I will also call in on the QS and Barnardo's head offices.

As I circle England I will meet with local Barnardo's fundraisers, and with luck we will  raise awareness as well as raising money.

For every £1 donated, Barnardo’s spend 91p on their charitable activities, 3p on governance and pension finance costs and the remaining 6p on raising the next £1 – that's good value!

Please help me to help the young people Barnardo's supports and "Give us your money!"