Miscellaneous

This August one of the toughest challenges on a single motorbike will take place – the 'Long Way Up!' – a gruelling unsupported ride around the UK. 

So, forget the Dakar rally and move aside Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman, this challenge will be happening on most people's doorsteps here within the UK.

I am a lecturer in Human Factors/Ergonomics at the University of Nottingham, and I'll be travelling with my step-brother Ben Fitzpatrick.

One motorbike, two men and 2,500 miles

We will make the attempt on a single motorbike, starting and finishing our challenge in Matlock Bath, Derbyshire.

Setting off on Friday 17 August, we will travel from Land's End the 'long way up' to John O'Groats stopping off to climb the highest mountains in England, Scotland and Wales on the way. 

Alex & Ben on their Triumph Tiger

We'll travel more than 2,500 miles in 10 days and climb a total height in excess of 11,000 feet.

We're taking on the challenge to raise money for Cancer Research UK and the Acorns Children's Hospice Trust. 

I'm supporting Cancer Research UK as I lost a family friend to lung cancer last year and my mother-in-law's breast cancer has now returned.

Ben is supporting Acorns because his girlfriend's family have close associations with the Trust which helps life limited children throughout the Midlands.

An adventure for two ordinary people

We just wanted to show that two ordinary people can do something special.

It's going to be very tough at times but it will be an adventure and we'll be helping people who are not as lucky as ourselves in many ways.

You'll be able to track Alex's adventures on this website. Watch this space.