I'm celebrating my 50th birthday by cycling the length of the UK, using the National Cycle Network - 'LEJOG' is short-hand for Land's End to John O'Groats. That's 1,200 miles in total (before adding on the inevitable extra miles getting lost, trying to find a campsite, or checking out the local pub).

I'm taking the whole of September to do this, because I can. I'll also be carrying everything I need on the bike for the first fortnight, including tent, cooking stove, and sleeping bag as I'll be self-supporting and staying at campsites and youth hostels. My brother will meet me for the last two weeks and support me with my campervan, so the journey up from Carlisle should be a doddle (!).

Since I'm sticking to Sustrans' National Cycle Network for as much of the trip as possible, I thought I'd use my adventure to fundraise for this fantastic charity.I know how fantastic they are because I'm a regular volunteer with one of their 'Bike-It' Officers who encourage children to cycle or walk to school.

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, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

if you want to follow me on my trip through September, here's the blog I'm writing as I move slowly up the country: alisonlejog.blogspot.co.uk

So please dig deep and donate now.