International Rugby star Ollie Phillips takes an epic cycle challenge in honour of his grandmother

Ollie is marking his 30th birthday by taking on this challenge, while in the meantime raising money for Alzheimer's Society, a charity that is close to his heart. Ollie's Nan Audrey, 87, was diagnosed with dementia earlier this year. He said:

'With my 30th birthday coming up, I thought this was the perfect opportunity to do something out of the ordinary in honour of Nan. I also really want to raise much needed funds for Alzheimer's Society to support the vital work they do with people with dementia and their carers.'

The cycle ride starts in London on 5 September and finishes at the Brussels Beer Festival on 8 September 2012.

Ollie continued:

'I'm inviting all my friends to join me, so I'm hoping the trip will also double up as a three-day birthday party too! There are still places left for members of the public, so if you want to join in the fun and raise money for a really worthy cause sign up now!'

Liz Monks, Director of Fundraising at Alzheimer's Society, said:

'We are delighted that Ollie has decided to celebrate his birthday by giving his time to join us on the London to Brussels bike ride. One in three people over 65 will develop dementia. It is caused by diseases of the brain and can happen to anyone.

'As a charity, we rely on the generosity of individuals like Ollie to help us continue our vital work. Please back him and his mates in their fundraising efforts so that Alzheimer's Society can continue leading the fight against dementia.'

To sign up for the London to Brussels cycle ride visit alzheimers.org.uk/cycling. The deadline for sign-ups is the end of January.