Together with friend Jonathan Gilburt, (63) environmental campaigner Vic Ient planned a mammoth bike ride from the South of France, over the Alps and then home via Dieppe and Newhaven. Calling from just outside Dieppe on Tuesday morning, Vic said: "The most dangerous part of the trip is going to be the A26 and the A27 from Newhaven to Lewes!"
Vic has just returned home after what he describes as a 'life-changing and wonderful journey' made even more special by the response from friends to his campaign. He is raising money for two Ukrainian charities, Ukrainian Hearts and Convoy4Ukraine.
The pair took a night train from Paris to Nice and then cycled to a point on the Cote d'Azur where Napoleon landed in 1815 after escaping from imprisonment on the isle of Elba.
They followed the Route Napoleon from Golfe Juan through the Alpes Maritimes and Alpes de Haute Provence. They then headed to the source of the Loire following the river to Orleans before joining EuroVelo 6 via Chartres to Caudebec en Caux en route to Dieppe. The journey was about 1,485km long.
Vic used an electric bike. Sadly Jonathan had to attend to urgent business at home but Vic continued alone for 1,000km. He said: "It was fine. Cyclists are so welcome in France and I met nothing but kindless and consideration on the way. One woman came along and pressed notes into my hand for the charities.
"I really enjoyed the journey and what made it extra special for me was the support I received from friends and family, also knowing it's contributing to a little help for people in that beleaguered country. I'm hoping to continue my fundraising, as the current news coming out of Ukraine is far from encouraging."
If you'd like to help contact: https://sussex4Ukraine.uk/france-south-to-north-cycle-ride-2025
1. At Orléans by the statue of Joan of Arc
At Orléans by the statue of Joan of Arc Photo: Submitted