I’m sorry to have to give the news that our stalwart and intrepid FLATB and great champion of any fundraising in Jessica’s name has had to on medical advice withdraw from the Ride. You will be sorely missed for sure Phil especially by your room mate but we wish you a speedy and uneventful recovery from your impending surgery.... get well soon from us all xxxxxxx

Following 2016’s fundraising success, and my own personal accomplishment of completing the London to Paris cycle ride in aid of MIND, it is time again to don the lycra and enjoy the fresh air!
My drive for doing this is in the memory of Jessica Davies, who will be forever young. Tragically Jessie lost her life to suicide in 2013. Jessie spent many a happy hour in the Sobanski household with my youngest daughter Charlotte, and we have many memories of them playing, laughing and getting up to mischief! She will always hold a special place in our hearts, as does our continued friendship with Jessie’s family.
So, along with my cycling partner in crime Colin Morton, and with the support of my wife Lucille, 3 daughters and 4 grandchildren, I will be cycling from London to Amsterdam. From 30th May to 3rd June 2018 I will be part of a select group of elite athletes hailing from various parts of the country. Together, we will all be raising money and awareness for better mental health on behalf of MIND. Poor mental health affects us all in one way or another, and along with Jessie’s mum Cath I hope not only to raise money, but also to promote awareness and better mental health for all. We should not be afraid to talk about mental health, and by doing so we can aim to reduce and ultimately banish the stigma that surrounds it.
As I am no longer at my peak of physical fitness this really will be a challenge, but one I am looking forward to fulfilling. The response to my feeble efforts in the past has been fantastic from family, friends and colleagues. I expect nothing, but hope for a little compassion - and a small donation to MIND as a reward!
Many thanks for taking the time to read this,
Phil