At 58 I didn’t think that I would be cycling to Paris for fun ! But as an ex Rugby player and to those that know me , you will all know that I have kept myself fighting fit , very trim , fully moisturised , not touched alcohol for years , and that my wife has to drag me out of the gym kicking and screaming almost every night ! 😊 😊 ( Not Really )

I have worked for Wring Group for 42 years , and continue to work 12 hours most days , not because I have to , but because I want to , and as a family we have created a large corporate animal that requires constant feeding . we are lucky to have the majority of a great , and loyal work force , who make that task worthwhile .

Anyone that runs a business , especially a family business in the construction industry will understand the emotional rollercoaster ride that is every day , but the satisfaction we all get from delivering projects on time , on budget , without incident or accident is immeasurable .

Having the experience of the above work life , gives you an insite not just into the amount of work and effort that organisations like St Peters Hospice have to put into their actual existence , as well as the the financial pressures , but also that most of the people that make up the teams , are doing this in their own time and for little or no reward , just the satisfaction of helping others in a less fortunate position who are going through the painful experience of gradually losing a loved one .

However , having lost my sister at 48 and my father to leukaemia 2 years later , and having been assisted by St Peters Hospice and other self funded Charitable organisations during those very dark times , I have seen 1st hand how important the support , love , understanding and compassion that is provided by the people who give their time for nothing , during the suffering period of losing our loved ones .

So , like me you are probably quite cheesed off by being asked to give money to numerous causes over the year , especially if you already support other organisations that are equally as important as this .

If you don’t want to , or cant afford to , then not a problem , you can just have a laugh at my expense , imagining how I intend to get my 16 stone + frame ( give or take a few stone ) across France into Paris for the benefit of such a worthwhile cause .

I consider myself both privileged and fortunate to be able to do something like this with a group of mates , as there are many many people who we all know / knew who are not so lucky or privileged or fortunate , so dig deep if you can , don’t care how much , just see what you can do , and we will keep you posted on progress , and how the lycra is holding out ………………