I decided that I needed a challenge for 2016 and thenthis opportunity for a major personal challenge with the ability to raise moneyfor a fantastic cause came up.

MacMillan provide support to people diagnosed with cancerthrough treatment and beyond, they are a constant source of support, givingpeople the energy and inspiration to help them take back control of their life,and feel more like themselves again.

On the 20/21 August me and 1000 likeminded (read that howyou will) barmy people will be cycling 500km in 24hours fromNewcastle down to London.

I have 3 months left to train and to be honest it's a mixof excitement and fear, but either way it's an experience that I'm determinedto enjoy!

Follow my training & progress on Strava to see howI'm getting on. (https://www.strava.com/athletes/andi_merchant)

My target is £1000 which is just £2 per km that I willride, but with your help I hope to smash that target and raise money for anamazing charity!

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totallysecure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on orsend unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to thecharity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cuttingcosts for the charity.