2 miles down. Where's the pub?

It's started! I'm off... well, I'm off to the starting point anyway. Currently on the train from Bristol Temple Meads to London Paddington. "We apologise for the late running of this train. This was due to signalling problems outside Chippenham". Looks like I won't get to Greenwich until about 3pm, and with 45 miles to cycle to the B&B booked tonight, well, so much for taking it easy to start with. I might - just might - have to skip a bit this afternoon on the train. Think of this bit as a warm-up.

After many suggestions, I've decided to raise money for WaterAid during this trip. I'll be getting through litres of water, and taking easy access to it for granted, but millions around the world don't have that luxury. Your donation will keep me motivated to keep the wheels turning.

My target is as ambitious as the trip itself ... £2000 - but that's just a pound for every kilometre I plan to cycle. So if you can each chuck in a tenner into the pot that would be brilliant. Visit http://www.justgiving.com/BenHambidge to donate and leave a message.

And while we're on messages, please feel free to comment on these blog posts. The more you write, the less I have to

OK,so check again... passport, money, credit cards... check. Kitchen sink... check. Feels like it anyway. Ferry ticket? Damn, forgot to print that off.

I felt so free cycling down to the station - couldn't believe I'm on the way. Frankly I can't think what has come over me to attempt this, but none of you stopped me. Bastards. I don't even have any keys to get back into my own house, so I may as well keep going now. But I'm starting to regret not setting off a couple of hours earlier this morning....