Neighbours Hugo Raymond and Gregg Dunsire from West Putney and their friend Torquil McLusky from Wandsworth Common are set for some tough training as they prepare to take part in a London to Paris Bike Ride (18th-21st May), to raise vital funds for The National Autistic Society.

They will cover 300km in three days in a journey that will take them from the streets of South East London, to the South Downs, south coast and finally the Seine! En route through France, they will conquer the countryside and scoot through sleepy Normandy villages onwards to the capital to be rewarded with a view of the spectacular Eiffel Tower at the finish line.

They hope to raise as much as they can for the NAS, the UK’s leading charity for people with autism, which will enable the NAS to fund crucial services which are a lifeline to thousands.

The trio will ride in support of the estimated 588,000 people with autism in the UK today and fellow team member Hugo, whose son was diagnosed with autism last year.. As Hugo’s family has experienced the invaluable support of the NAS firsthand, the team hope to help the NAS extend their reach to many more individuals and their families.

Torquil, Hugo & Gregg train for their trip in Richmond Park

Hugo says “When my boy was first diagnosed with autism, to be honest, I didn’t really understand what the full implications were.

My wife and I relied heavily on the advice and information provided by charities like the NAS. We have received a lot of help from a lot of people and its time to put something back so others can benefit. I am so moved by our friends, neighbours and work colleagues who have supported this cause especially those who are coming with us.”

Gregg says; “I really wanted to achieve some personal goals this year and I think this London to Paris bike ride will be my pièce de résistance! It will be an uphill struggle in places, but the amazing scenery and camaraderie of my team mates will get me through. I know that by challenging myself, I’ll be helping people with autism to get the best out of their lives too.”

Torquil says “The work that the NAS does is of vital importance and I’m looking forward to help raise as much as I can for them. I can’t wait to get pedalling to Paris as I lived there for four years and look forward to being greeted under the Eiffel Tower by some of my old friends.”

Funds raised from the London to Paris bike ride will help to support NAS services including the Autism helpline, Advocacy for Education Service, Befriending Scheme, Parent to Parent support service and help! programme.

To support Hugo, Gregg and Torquil with their fundraising efforts, please sponsor them now by visiting: www.justgiving.com/onwardstoparis or by calling the NAS Active Challenges hotline number on 08450 509001.