A director at furniture supplier Gallery Direct has launched a fundraising campaign in aid of the Help for Heroes charity.
James Hudson, Furniture Development Director at Gallery Direct, has signed up to bike ride 400k in June this year in an effort to help raise at least £3,000 for the charity.
The Big Battlefield Bike Ride will take place from 24 to 29 June 2024 and will mark the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, while also remembering the sacrifices made by brave servicemen and women.
The ride itself starts from Sainte-Mere-Eglise in Northern France to D-Day beaches Omaha, Gold & Juno. It then follows the path of British expeditionary forces, by exploring Bayeux, Lisieux and Bernay, concluding in Paris.
Commenting on the challenge, James said: “I was privileged to be part of the 5th Battalion Royal Green Jackets Reserves for seven years and had a small insight into life of the regular Army and realise the struggles some soldiers have after leaving service, so this is an ideal opportunity to help raise funds whilst enjoying cycling with like-minded people and good friends.
“As many will know, the 2 Rifles is supported by The Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers, our industry charity and where I was in the Livery, and so the military has a strong link to the furniture industry and myself.
“I will be paying my own travel costs and therefore any donations will benefit the charity directly. I’m excited about the challenge and can’t wait to get on the bike for the French tour.”
