I, Like everyone else, have been horrified by the scenes from the recent invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces. My heart immediately went out to all the people of Ukraine, especially the children.

Outside of eating a bunch of Pizza's and donating myself, I was thinking of other ways in which I could raise funds to help. With the success of the Mumbo Jumbo Jumbo Cycle, which raised over £7,000 for cycling projects, I thought another cycling challenge was in order.

With some quick googling I found the land border between Russia and Ukraine is 1975KM, and with 50 days until I leave the country for a few weeks without my bike, it seemed the challenge was essentially set for me. 1975KM in 50 days, around my work schedule and other commitments. 

To make it very clear I AM NOT CYCLING THE ACTUAL BORDER. THAT WOULD BE RECKLESS, DANGEROUS AND STUPID. I am just riding the physical distance compiled over various rides big and small. Whether it's 5KM to a friends house, or a 200KM slog across the coast of England, or 40KM on my indoor exercise bike (edit - 29/04: No grade stipulation, due to a bike fault forcing me to ride inside). As long as I average 38KM a day over the course of the 50 days I will reach my goal.

What is the Save the children ukraine appeal? "We are delivering essential humanitarian aid to children and their families including the provision of winter and hygiene kits. We are also providing cash grants to families so they can meet their basic needs such as food, rent and medicines.

Our specialist teams are providing children with access to safe, inclusive, quality education and are working with schools and community centres to help children overcome the mental and psychological impacts of their experiences of conflict and violence.

Our Child Emergency Fund allows us to respond wherever the need is greatest. It helps us to reach children quickly with the essentials they need to survive."