We have tried to get out and ride most weekends - in order to build up some acclimatisation to being on bikes - and improve our general level of fitness. Whilst we haven't done long distances (up to 30 miles) we have made the most of some very hilly terrain around South Devon.

We start from Totnes and head off in various directions

Routes include circuits round Ashburton and Buckfastleigh. Down to the coast and back at Blackpool Sands via Strete and up on Dartmoor (Holne and Hexworthy).

Mike Jeffries
I'm a parent at the Steiner School and work at the University of Exeter in School of Education and Lifelong Learning. I am a long term supporter of all things sustainable both home and abroad and I would fully commend the way in which the Joliba Trust works - supporting local people to devise solutions to their own problems and to educate the community. Sustainable development has become more central to the working of the University and the MSc in Sustainable Development is signpost for the future. Whilst I am keen on cycling - this trip is more sustained than the day outings that I usually engage with and I wonder how sore I am going to feel after a few full days in the saddle!

Susanna Chapman
I am a parent at the Steiner School -  I have two daughters in the Kindergarten there. In recent years I have been pretty unfit - the last time I did any cycle touring was in my twenties, and that was twenty years ago! I decided that in 2008 I would get fit again, and to make sure I didn't chicken out I signed up for this bike ride. In order to justify (to myself!) leaving my kids with my husband for two weeks, I have tried to get as much sponsorship as possible, and I am happy to be supporting the school and the Joliba Trust. I've been training for this ride since the New Year, so I hope it's all going to pay off, and that I will be fit enough to complete the ride!

Andrew Holdstock
I am a teacher at the Steiner School (maths in the Upper School ) and a National cycle trainer. I have been a long time keen cyclist and cycle regularly. This trip was my idea originally and it would be great to see a  'grande' cycle tour as a regular feature in the calendar. Italy? Around the Baltic? A tour of Spain? So many places to go.......................................
My hope is that the success of this tour will inspire others to join us, in future years.

Ken Streat
I am a self employed furniture maker and the one rider not connected to the Steiner school. This is my first long bike tour but I cycle regularly for pleasure and to and from work. I am very glad to be able to help raise money for the Joliba trust and  I'm looking forward to seeing the length of France at bicycle pace. Many thanks to all those who have sponsored us.