Whitnash man’s charity cycle from London to Brussels

James Samperi, 31, of Palmer Road, is part of a cycling team who are covering more than 400 miles in four days by travelling from London to Brussels.

The team, who set off on Wednesday and are aiming to complete the challenge tomorrow, are raising funds and awareness for two good causes - one of which is very close to Mr Samperi’s heart.

Mr Samperi’s late grandfather Stephen ‘Nibby’ Turvey received rehabilitation support from Take Heart in Rugby after he suffered a heart attack in the late 1990s.

Mr Samperi said: “They do some very good work, which is the unsung rehabilitation side, that I wanted to do something for.

“It was strange because up until six months before he passed away he was still going to the gym twice a week and playing badminton.

“Take Heart gave him that structure to keep going and without that it would have been more difficult.

“Essentially the ride is for him but it will also raise money for a cause which he cared deeply about.”

Now based in London, Mr Samperi has been training hard in Richmond Park, trying to avoid the herds of deer in the process.

An added motivator for James as he passes through three countries and covers about 107 miles each day, will be reconditioned purpose-built bicycle he is riding which has his grandfather’s nickname painted on the frame.

Mr Samperi said: “I should be OK, as long as I don’t get lost and too sore I am not too worried.”

To donate to the cause or find out more about the challenge visit www.biking2brussels.co.uk