Tandem pair off two Paris

CYCLING from London to Paris for charity is tough enough for most people.

But if you have multiple sclerosis (MS), the 280-mile journey could be almost epic.

Luckily, a Huntingdonshire man is going to be supported on his ride between the two capitals by his wife on a bicycle made for two.

Jeff Greed, 47, of Buckworth, was diagnosed with MS in 1989 but has remained as active as possible, regularly setting out on bike rides.

However, on July 2, he and his wife of 18 years, Carol, will set off on a new challenge as they cycle to Paris on a tandem.

Mrs Greed, 51, said: "Jeff was sent details of the cycle ride from the MS Trust and we thought it would be the ideal opportunity to get involved and help fundraise for the good work that the charity does. It is something we can do together."

Although the MS forced Mr Greed to give up his job as a gardener in March, he says he finds it easier to cycle than walk.

Mrs Greed, a marketing manager in Bedford, said: "We both enjoy cycling and have been trying to cover about 20 or 25 miles, but we have never cycled as many miles as we will have to in July.

"It is going to be a challenge but it gives us both something to focus on and work towards."

The couple's friends Andrew George, Ed Stonestreet, Jonathan Kinna and Tom Miles are also taking part in the challenge.

The group hope to raise £5,000 for the MS Trust and have already collected £950 from friends and family and a pamper evening held at the Green Man in Leighton Bromswold.

To raise more money they are holding a casino night on March 8, at the Green Man. Entry is £10 or £20 with food.

MS affects about 85,000 people in the UK. People with MS can often feel tired, with the disease affecting a person's balance, memory, speech and vision.

INFORMATION: To sponsor Jeff and Carol you can visit ­www.justgiving.com/cvclondon-paris