The James Whale Fund for Kidney Cancer has set off on their annual bicycle ride with a group of challengers cycling from Marble Arch in London to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The riders aim to raise in excess of £20,000 for the charity by the time they reach the French capital on Sunday.

Boris Johnson, Mayor of London, said “London to Paris on a bicycle is no mean feat. I hope everyone taking part raises a huge amount of money for a really super charity and I hope London as a city gets behind them for their ride."

Kulveer Ranger, the Mayor of London’s transport adviser, said: "I am honoured to be able to take part in the London leg of this ride for what is a fantastic cause. James is doing a great job in highlighting the need for increased knowledge, awareness and research of kidney cancer and I fully support him in his efforts. I wish all the riders who are completing the challenge all the best and would encourage everyone to dig deep and sponsor them as much as they can."

Sally Hewitt's partner, Steve Wright, was diagnosed with advance stage kidney cancer in June 2009. To show her support for the charity Sally is taking part in the bicycle ride. She said “I didn’t own a bike when I signed up for this event, but it is certainly a charity close to my heart. Steve is only 41 years old and between us we have two children.

The James Whale Fund for Kidney Cancer has been, and will continue to be a great support to us during these tough times. We need to spread the word about the importance of early detection and I think the bike ride is a great way to raise awareness of the disease.
If Steve can manage it he will ride with us part of the way on his motorcycle.”

The money raised during the ride will help increase knowledge and awareness of kidney cancer, thus supporting research into the causes, prevention and treatment of the disease. It will also help by providing a support network offering advice, information and encouragement to those who’ve been diagnosed with kidney cancer and their carers.

International logistics specialists The UCS Group has kindly donated part of their fleet, which will support the cyclists from start to finish offering much needed assistance to weary participants.

The UCS Group’s Managing Director, Wayne McDonnell, expressed his delight ahead of the ride, “It is wonderful to be involved in such an ambitious project and a fantastic opportunity to raise money for such a worthwhile cause.”

Broadcaster, James Whale, also expressed his joy, “The UCS Group has already gone the extra mile for The Fund through their generous donation.”

You can see more pictures on our flickr site

The Fund has already begun the search for 50 participants to cycle in next year’s Arch to Arc ride which will take place from 23rd June – 26th June 2011.

If you think you are up for the challenge go to here for more information or if you would like to sponsor Sally you can do so at at this site.