Kingston to Palermo - Sponsored Cycle Ride in aid of Reading Force
This time we are going further - and our intrepid cyclist, Neil Baverstock (husband of our Reading Force founder Alison), joined by others on various stages of the journey, will cycle from Kingston-upon-Thames to Palermo in Sicily - birthplace of their most recent daughter-in-law.
All proceeds from fundraising will go towards the work of the charity (expedition costs are being covered by the cyclists/supporters). You can support our work by kindly donating through this page:
To make matters more interesting, we invite you to submit your bid (by the end of September 2026) for how many miles will be covered on the journey. Send your estimate to alison@readingforce.org.uk along with your email address. The closest estimate will receive a poster copy of what Alison considers the world's most beautiful painting, which is housed in Palermo. (The Annunciate by Antonella da Messina c.1476, to be found in the Galleria Abatellis).
You will be able to follow the progress of Neil and friends on Strava where you will be able to see what he has done each day, including the route, daily mileage and other stats about the day’s ride. He will also be posting comments about that day and uploading photos (some of which Reading Force colleagues will upload on social media).
Reading Force supports the military community by organising shared-reading initiatives to keep Forces families connected. Founded in 2011 we know that those who take part feel more in touch and enjoy fun activities that promote well being and positive mental health. Find out more about what we do - including two short films that show the project in action - at