William, of Dyke’s road, was inspired to take part to improve his fitness but above all to raise funds for a good cause. William said: "The hardest part of this sort of event is choosing which charity to support. However for me it had to be CARE International … because of the vital work they do around the world. In these tough times, most recently with the Middle East and drought in East Africa, it is vital that charities such as CARE International receive as much support as possible.”

William cycled 234 miles in four days from capital to capitale, winding through the English and French countryside and finishing with a well-earned lap of honour around Paris’ aptly named  Arc de Triomphe. He says of his training, “Living in mid-Wales, there is plenty of choice when it comes to hill training. I travel abroad every 2-3 weeks for a few days at a time, so it was a challenge to maintain the strict training plan, but I have trained with Oswestry based personal trainer, Dean Shum, who has really helped me grow my fitness levels!”

William hopes to encourage others thinking of taking on a challenge for a good cause. “I would say go for it – it really was a fantastic event, and you don’t have to be super-fit to have an enjoyable time. If I can do it, anyone can! More importantly the end feeling of accomplishment, and raising money for well worth causes is motivation enough.”

CARE’S WORK

CARE International is a leading aid organisation fighting global poverty and delivering emergency aid to survivors of war and natural disasters. In over 87 countries around the world, CARE works with communities to improve basic education, prevent the spread of HIV, increase access to clean water and sanitation, improve maternal and child health, expand economic opportunity and protect natural resources.

CARE is also linking entrepreneurs in developing countries with individual investors in the UK through new microfinance initiative www.lendwithcare.org. Anyone can change a life with a loan from just £15, and get their money back.