My name is Peter Cocker and on Friday 7th May with I set off to cycle the "End to End", from Land's End the length of and to John o'Groats. Why? Because it's there and it's another challenge and because I can.

As most people reading this will know only too well a year ago my wife Gillian died of breast cancer after 41 years by my side. Her death left a gaping hole in my life. To fill that empty space I pushed myself by doing without a car and cycling everywhere. The result? I have occupied my time and my mind, got fitter into the bargain and made new friends. The plan has worked in every respect and more and to cycle the 1000 miles of the End to End will be the ultimate challenge for me (well for this year anyway!). Even better, I would like it to help others too.

During the 12 years of her illness Gillian was given access to the services of Pendleside Hospice so I know it's true what they say about hospices. Before you use one you have serious reservations but once you go through the door you find a place of peace and joy, support and friendship, laughter and tears, all part of a life enhancing experience. In addition to helping Gillian they have helped me deal with bereavement and even more, set me on the road to future happiness.

Although it will be impossible to properly thank the Hospice I volunteer my time to help raise much-needed funds. This bike ride is a perfect opportunity to turn my time into more cash to support those in thearea with life threatening or terminal illness and their families. So please dig deep and donate now.

The trip has been made possible by Stephen Finn and. Thank you Stephen for your timely support leading up to the E2E and thank you Michael for letting me join you on the actual ride. I will try not to let you down!

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