From 22nd June 2021, I will be cycling 1,200 miles across the length of the UK from Land’s End to John o’Groats. I’m doing this challenge to highlight the decline of butterflies and moths, the importance of connecting with our natural world - and to raise funds for Butterfly Conservation. 

I want to raise awareness of the crisis that faces our wildlife, promote Butterfly Conservation and the fantastic work it does, and get people to engage with nature, especially near where they live and work. The point is that everyone can do something to help in protecting the UK’s nature: every small action or donation counts. 

My ride uses the National Cycle Network set up by Sustrans, and I am visiting as many nature reserves as I can.

I hope to meet many local volunteers, and I welcome folks to join me on their bicycles, whether for a couple of miles or longer. 

Butterfly Conservation is promoting the ride and it will appear in the Summer 2021 edition of Butterfly magazine, and on their website https://butterfly-conservation.org/bikeforbutterflies. 

Cycling has always been an interest of mine, and I have long held a fascination with the Land's End to John O'Groats ride. I wanted to take on something that would challenge me - something that I wasn't sure that I could accomplish. This seemed the ideal opportunity: being 62 years old, it feels like "now or never”!

I'm dedicating this ride to my good friend, Kevin, who I met at University all those years ago. He introduced me to cycle touring when we went on a wonderful cycling holiday on Orkney in 1978. Sadly, he died from cancer two years ago. Gone, but not forgotten. 

Follow my journey on Twitter @sbsaville 

Send me a message at simon.saville@gmail.com. 

View more details of the ride on my personal website: www.bikeforbutterflies.org

About Butterfly Conservation

Butterfly Conservation is the UK charity dedicated to saving butterflies and moths. These are key indicators of the health of our environment. They connect us to nature and contribute to our well-being. We improve landscapes for butterflies and moths, creating a better environment for us all.

If Simon cannot complete his challenge due to unforeseen circumstances Butterfly Conservation would still like to use your sponsorship money to fund our conservation work. If you would prefer to have your sponsorship money returned in this instance please contact us at enquiries@butterfly-conversation.org.