The idea was the brainchild of RSC head of lighting, Vince Herbert who says: "When I first suggested the bike ride, the instant reaction from my colleagues was laughter - for some reason they don't think a 50-something like me will be able to manage it. But Holland is very flat, so it can't be that hard, can it?"
The Stratford group will be joined by an additional four cyclists, including representatives from lighting equipment suppliers, White Light, who will begin their expedition in London.
After a journey that includes a ferry crossing between Harwich and the Hoek of Holland, the pedal-pushers will finally arrive in Amsterdam on Saturday 13 June.
Those taking part will be cycling in aid of Kids Kidney Research Charity. Phil Supple, a freelance lighting designer from Bedford and one of those taking part in the ride, said, "In 2006 at the age of two, my eldest son, David, was diagnosed with childhood nephrotic syndrome - a rare kidney disease. Now aged four, David is being very well treated by the Paediatric team at Bedford Hospital. Carol, my partner, and I are very grateful that with the help of research scientists, doctors across the country have the information they need to keep children like David out of hospital and firing on all cylinders.
"We're delighted that those involved in the ride have all agreed to ride in aid of a charity called Kids Kidney Research which supports vital kidney research for babies and children across the UK."
Anyone wishing to contribute to the charity can make a donation at www.justgiving.com/asyoubikeit. The group's progress can followed on www.mapmytracks.com by searching for As You Bike It.
(Jim Evans)
