London to Brighton bike ride

Keith's London to Brighton bike ride for the British Heart Foundation

A 5:30am departure from Wantage saw us arrive at Clapham Common in good time for my 8:00am start. From 6:00am onwards, just over 15,000 riders were taking part in this iconic event on Sunday 16th June, being sent on their way every half an hour.

Liz, Amy and Becca cheered me and Deji, a long standing friend from Essex, on our way, Liz being disappointed that she wasn't able to join in after all. Still, it meant that she could enjoy a day out in Brighton with our girls!

The cloudy start in London soon gave way to rain which accompanied us through the outskirts of the city into the countryside (some of it very heavy indeed) -- but then after 31 miles or so, not only did it stop raining but the sun came out and by the time we arrived in Brighton, via a very windy Ditchling Beacon, the weather was perfect.

Ditchling is 46 miles or so into the ride and looms on the horizon as you get towards the south downs. Last time I did this ride, four years ago, I managed to get ¾ up it before having to get up and walk. This year... the same. ¾ of the way up, I was off and pushing my bike towards the summit. Still, there's always next time!

As we approached the seafront and the finish, the sea sparkled, the sun was hot and the sky blue and there was a packed crowd to cheer us and all the other riders over the line.

It took us 4 hours 56 minutes to cycle the 54 miles and we enjoyed every minute of it.

A big thank you to everyone who so generously sponsored me, either pledging money on the sponsorship forms or using my justgiving page online. As soon as all the money is in, the final total will be announced.

Thank you for all the kind wishes and prayers.

Keith