Merrick Bramley is getting in the saddle for the Tour of the Roses 2023 in aid of the Smile for Georgie Foundation.

Along with other fundraisers, the 46-year-old will leave Guernsey on Saturday, 2 September and cycle the 1,700km route from St Malo to Avignon in just 10 days – passing through The Alps and climbing a total of 18,100m, around twice the height of Mount Everest.

Merrick said: “I’m a keen cyclist but this is my hardest ever challenge. I’ve been training for around two years now and on average I have cycled around 250km a week. It’s a test of mind and body but I’ve also made some amazing friends along the way.

“Each stage will vary – but on average we’ll be cycling around 170km a day. I’m obviously a little apprehensive of what might be in store, but I’m very much looking forward to it.

“The route has been designed to give a blend of the best scenery and good places to visit, but passing through The Alps and seeing the likes of the Col du Pre, Petit Bernard, Val-d’Isere and Mont Ventoux will be really exciting.”

The Smile for Georgie Foundation was created by the family of Georgie Le Prevost who died following a tragic road accident in 2017. Overwhelmed with the immense public support and generosity following a tandem skydive, Georgie’s family decided to set up the foundation in her memory with the purpose of making a difference and bringing smiles to the people of Guernsey through small acts of kindness.

“Smile for Georgie is a wonderful charity and it does so much good in the local community,” Merrick continued. “I’m very proud to be taking part on their behalf and I can’t wait to get going. It’s particularly meaningful as Georgie’s sister, Annie, started working in our office two months ago. Any help and support people are able to give is greatly appreciated.”

If you would like to sponsor Merrick, please visit his JustGiving page by clicking here.