Lands End to John O'Groats - Cycling 1000 Miles for YHA

Hello everyone! I'm Denis Jordan, and I'm an 84-year-young adventurer embarking on a cycling journey with a purpose. With the support of my 7 children, 19 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren, I'll be pedaling from Land's End to John O' Groats. While the most direct route is 950 miles and usually completed over 14 days, my journey will be a bit different.

I'll be splitting the trip into two parts. The first leg will depart Land's End on August 11th and head to my hometown of Walsall (in the West Midlands) just in time for my 85th birthday dinner on September 15th, organized by my wonderful daughter Sarah. It'll be a fantastic reunion with all my loved ones – a birthday celebration I won't forget! After enjoying this family gathering, I'll set off on the second leg, heading north to John O Groats.

The whole trip, with all the detours to visit friends and family, will be well over 1,000 miles and take me 8-10 weeks. My route is still a work in progress, but I'm excited for the adventure! While I'll be staying in YHA hostels whenever possible, I'll also be camping in my trusty tent on some nights.

I've always had a passion for the great outdoors, and I've spent my life mountaineering, skiing, and rock climbing – all to raise money for causes close to my heart. Across France, Spain, Belgium, Holland, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, I've raised thousands of pounds for various organizations including RETO in Spain (an organization combating drug addiction), Birmingham's Children's Hospital, and the Stoke Mandeville Hospital.

This time around, I am fundraising for YHA to welcome poor and underprivileged children to have a holiday in a YHA adventure centre and allow them to explore themselves and the beauty of nature and the mountains. Having experienced poverty myself as a child, I understand the transformative power of such experiences. I'll be keeping a log of my travels along the way so you can follow along and share in the journey!

Your generous donations will directly support these children's adventures, covering accommodation, activities, and the simple joy of a break from the everyday.

Please join me in making this dream a reality! Every penny counts, and your support will not only help me reach John O Groats but will also brighten the lives of countless young children.

Thank you for being a part of this extraordinary journey!

With warmth and gratitude,

Denis Jordan