On your bike! Coleen Nolan cycles for charity in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society

Coleen and Ray are in the saddle and in training for the Alzheimer's Society's ultimate bike challenge - 400km ride along the banks of the great river Nile in February 2007.

Coleen says, 'My Mum has Alzheimer's and I know just how devastating this disease is. Alzheimer's and any form of dementia not only affects the person who is diagnosed but everyone in the family.

'By cycling along the Nile for the Alzheimer's Society we will be getting fit, experiencing close up a fascinating part of the world and - most importantly - raising money and awareness to help people living with dementia like Mum. Taking up this challenge of a lifetime is one positive way myself and Ray can make a difference to others.'

Coleen and Ray will be part of a team of fundraisers for the Society who will cycle up to a gruelling 112km a day over 5 days. Their sponsored bike ride along the Nile will take them past pyramids, across deserts and through the Valley of the Kings.

Coleen adds,

'I urge everyone who can still manage it - to get on your bike and get cycling for the Alzheimer's Society. If we can do it - so can you!'

Ray sums up,

'Bike Week is the perfect reason to get peddling and get in training for some serious cycling. Get fit and help raise much needed funds for a good cause. We'll see you up the Nile!'

The Alzheimer's Society runs a number of overseas treks and cycle rides to locations including Peru, Chine and Egypt.