I turned 50 in January and have always wanted to take part in a long distance multi day cycling event. Or as it's also known a mid-life crisis.

In September of this year, I will be taking part in the Babble Ride Across Britain where me and 800 others will cycle from Land's End to John O'Groats over 9 days, cycling roughly 100 miles or more per day.

Whenever I've told anyone what I am doing they have always asked if I'm doing this for charity, and while this hadn't been my original plan it seemed like too good an opportunity to pass on.

My daughters attend East Liverpool Riding for the Disabled every Sunday, and I know first-hand how much it benefits them.

East Liverpool RDA is headed up by Natalie, run by volunteers and funded by donations. They need approx £100,000 a year to stay open and I am hoping that I can help them.

I hate asking for sponsorship - money is tight for everyone, but I know how much this will help them and so I know it is the right thing to do. I have funded my own place in the event so that any money raised will go directly to them.

RDA are finding it harder and harder to raise money - funding is drying up and they aren't curing the incurable or fighting injustice.

What they do provide is a moment of happiness and fulfilment for children and adults by offering riding sessions with horses and ponies for individuals with complex learning difficulties or disabilities including those suffering long-term illness.

This website requires a fundraising target so I've set it at £980 - or £1 per mile, we don't have to stop there - though I will have to stop at John O'Groats as bicycles don't float.

It'd be great if you could support the RDA with me.