Honister Help for Heroes London to Paris Bike Ride

Tired legs over the white cliffs of Dover, tall ships at night, little boats in the morning - so the saying goes.  

Having agreed enthusiastically one night at a bar that if ever Honister Capital did a bike ride to Paris, then I was most definitely 'in'. And with good cause Help 4 Heroes I could hardly say no!

With the bluff called, and feeling very much a little boat, a group of 140 cyclists set off from London yesterday morning. After an enthusiastic start we unfortunately had two of our number requiring hospital treatment after bad falls. Aside from that the main source of pain is the road. It's around 87 miles from London to Dover, and most of them hurt. The Kent countryside helps divert the mind and ease the pain, but welcoming country pubs pass by unused as we needed to make the 5pm ferry.

That aim came under threat when I suffered back to back punctures at around 50 miles. The second of these made a huge pop and split the rear tyre. Luckily there are mechanics at hand to help. But a big thanks to Money Marketing Editors past and present, John Lappin and Paul McMillan, who waited half an hour with me for the Mechanic's Van to arrive.

After a final and very silent ride through the streets of Calais, day one is now done. Big(ish) hills 4. Bananas 3. Muesli bars 6. Tired legs 2.

Today, France!

Keith Brookbank, Linstock Communications

Anyone wishing to donate to Help for Heroes please follow this link.