THE Master of Olicana Lodge in Ilkley Philip Atkinson is among a group of seven masonic cyclists from several lodges within West Yorkshire to celebrate the 300th anniversary of Freemasonry in England by cycling from London to Leeds within 24 hours.

The group will be raising money for The West Riding Masonic Charities fund and Breast Cancer Haven. The West Riding Masonic Charities fund supports Freemasons and their dependants when in need. The Charity also assists the general community with grants for community projects. Breast Cancer Haven offers free emotional support, help and practical advice to anyone affected by breast cancer from its network of centres.

"Within the last 12 months Ilkley Freemasons are proud to have donated to Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue, Yeadon Army Cadets, Ben Rhydding Golf Club, Ilkley Girl Guides as well as many others.

"This July, seven masonic cyclists, including me, from several lodges within West Yorkshire, are raising funds for the West Riding Masonic Charities Fund and Breast Cancer Haven. Our group is planning to cycle from Grand Lodge in London (Queen Street) to Castle Grove Masonic Hall in Leeds, within 24 hours. The event has secured sponsorship from several local businesses, whose generous contributions have ensured all costs have been covered. We will be supported with a van, two support drivers and plenty of drinks, energy gels and chamois cream. We are planning to complete the 210 mile journey in 14 hours, and hoping some additional cyclists will join us on the last 40 mile section."

If you would to donate to the sponsored ride it can be done by cheques payable to: L2L Charity; BACS: Ref [your name] A/C name L2L Charity Account number: 33889325 Sort code 56-00-54 or via Paypal: www.paypal.me/LondontoLeedsCharity

For further information and regular updates visit the L2L facebook page https://www.facebook.com/London2LeedsCycle/