In memory of Rob Gauntlett and James Atkinson.
Supporting Nalango Secondary, Uganda; and Christ's Hospital, Sussex:
Please make donations through any of the individual pages below.
In 2009, Rob Gauntlett and James Atkinson tragically died in the Alps. Two brilliant lives cut short - adventurers, educators, and the best friends and family we could all have asked for - truly an inspiration to so many.
Six months after the funeral, as Rob and James would have wanted, we decided some good should come of it all. So we rode from John O' Groat's to Land's End - a ride that Rob and James had both enjoyed themselves. 1000 miles of freedom and fresh air on the roads, and an epic achievement from many who had never cycled before.
As Rob would put it, we had put one foot in front of the other. Three years on, and our attentions turn to the continent: we shall pedal One Mile Closer (http://onemilecloser.com/), 1000km from Provence to Sussex, seeking out once again the wonder of the wind and the hills, of good company, laughter, and, once again, Rob and James' inspiration:
In Uganda, Nalango Secondary School has some very energetic teachers and students, but no facilities to speak of - just the place Rob would have enjoyed working. Where there was bare earth, Rob's fund has so far helped to build 5 classrooms and 8 latrines - but the school is growing, in quality and size, and more classrooms, water tanks, latrines, desks, teachers' houses are all needed. Work is being carried out through the Henry van Straubenzee Memorial Fund, set up themselves by parents after losing a young son, and who provide a brilliant example of good African development - passionate, efficient, consultative and with a long term involvement in each school and area. More information can be found at http://www.henryvanstraubenzeemf.org.uk/
The James Atkinson Bequest provides much needed support for outdoor activities at Christ's Hospital, and aims to sponsor children through the school, which is unique in providing a brilliantly diverse education to those who would not otherwise afford it: for Rob and James, Christ's Hospital opened their eyes and gave them their adventures, and they always wanted to repay that by one day helping other children receive those opportunities.
I hope you find as much joy as us in the trip: Many thanks as ever for your support - more information will be found on http://onemilecloser.com/
