A PAIR of fundraisers are preparing to set out on a 325 bike ride in aid of Dementia Adventure.

Gary Davies, of Heybridge, and John Dundas, of Great Totham, will be cycling unaided from Maldon to Paris in aid of the dementia charity.

The ‘Prom to Paris’ ride will begin at Promenade Park in Maldon on July 20, and finish four days later under the Eiffel Tower, before the pair cycle down the Champs Elysees to the Arc de Triomphe where they will enjoy watching the conclusion of the final stage of the Tour de France.

Money raised from the ride will provide supported holidays for people with dementia and their carers.

Gary said: “Both of my Nans had dementia. It was so difficult. They wouldn’t remember a visit from their children ten minutes previously or getting a phone call from their grandchildren.

“But they loved their holidays and the outdoors and I know they would have really benefitted from the support of a charity like Dementia Adventure.”

John added: “We expect to climb something like 15,000 feet during the trip. And we’ll be going this on two road bikes, equipped with little more than saddlebags carrying the essentials for the trip, including spare parts.

“Each bag is expected to weight around 12 to 15 lbs. It is going to be hard but it means that every penny we raise goes straight to the charity.”

Kath Vale, fundraising manager at Dementia Adventure, said: “I’m constantly amazed at what people will take on for our charity.

“We are so grateful for the massive efforts that Gary and John are making. The funds raised will go directly towards supporting people with dementia.”