My mum was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease during lockdown when it sadly became apparent she could no longer look after herself. The move from Scotland to a nursing home near me in Nottingham was all quite traumatic, but she was fortunate enough to join a local dementia choir that let her continue singing in a group, which she loved.

The choir makes a real difference to help those with dementia, and their carers, to enjoy the moment, make everlasting memories and helps publicise and broadcast the impact and issues associated with this now pervasive disease.

Although my mum can no longer attend the choir as her disease has progressed, the performances and singing she did still continues to be a source of wonder and amazement for her. If there is one good thing about dementia - it's being able to see photos and videos of the good things you've done as if it’s the first time, for always, forever.

None of this would be possible without the selfless dedication and support of the volunteers that run and administer the choir - booking rehearsals, arranging transport & catering and a million and one other things they do.

The first day of cycling will be Sunday, 24th Sept after getting the overnight ferry to St. Malo. All being well, I hope to get to Nice on Saturday 7th October. The biggest (scariest) bit will be cycling up the equivalent of Ben Nevis each day, about 11 miles straight up over the 2 weeks, including going up the infamous Mont Ventoux Tour de France stage… Ouch!