I'm John Haines and I have decided to take part in a charity cycle ride next summer. The ride will take place over a week in late June and will involve cycling for 400km (about 250 miles) in Tanzania, East Africa.

Of course the main reason for taking this on is to raise money for the charities involved. There are four of them, all concerned with research and treatment of heart disease. You are probably familiar with the British Heart Foundation but perhaps less well known are Tiny Tickers, Heart UK and one that I am particularly interested in, CRY which stands for Cardiac Risk in the Young.

So I would be delighted if you would support them by sponsoring me. 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 and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Perhaps I could mention two other things which have motivated me.

Firstly there is the location. Tanzania is a beautiful and fascinating country and I will have the opportunity to see it both along the Indian Ocean coast and inland where there will be a chance to see some of the wildlife. I have visited sub-Saharan Africa once before some years ago and I am really looking forward to experiencing its unique nature again.

Finally there is the challenge of getting into condition to cycle the 400 km on and off road. I am not as young as I was  (but then who is?) and I thought that this would be a great way to get fit. I've started my training regime and hope to build up for the trip over the next 9 months or so. 

So, I would like to say thank you very much for agreeing to sponsor me.

John Haines