Cycling enthusiast Wolf Simpson is looking forward to cycling 35 miles on Sunday as he takes part in the Pedal for The J’s charity bike ride - something he would not have thought possible just a few years ago.

Pedal for The J’s is a popular annual cycle ride starting and finishing in Admirals Park in Chelmsford with circular routes of 15, 35 or 50 miles through the beautiful Essex countryside.

The event is now in its seventh year and is organised by The J’s Hospice charity and sponsored by Beaulieu.The charity supports young adults with life-limiting conditions and their families across Essex.

Wolf had always enjoyed cycling when he was younger but was forced to give up his hobby over 20 years ago after a serious health problem left him using sticks to help him walk in his early 20s.

He did not think that he would ever ride a bicycle again until, in 2013, he had an operation to help with his disability and was told to try cycling as part of his recovery.

Not one to shy away from a challenge, Wolf set himself a target of ’30 days of biking’. He heard about the 2013 Pedal for The J’s cycle ride and decided to sign up and also raise some money for The J’s Hospice. He explained: “I wanted to do a long ride as the big finale for my challenge so I signed up for the 35 mile route. I also thought it would be an enjoyable way to raise money for a great cause that helps others who may be going through something similar or worse than me.”

Wolf had been a bit nervous about taking part so he paced himself carefully and really enjoyed the scenic route through the beautiful countryside and villages and the chance to chat with other cyclists. He found the last few miles really tiring and was delighted when he reached the finish line and the end of his 30 day challenge.

“I had surpassed myself - it was a fantastic event which I won't forget for a very long time, if at all.”

Wolf – who is now in his mid-40s and works in retail in Chelmsford – has continued cycling as it helps him to manage his disability by maintaining his levels of fitness as well as giving him more freedom.

He has also continued to be a keen supporter of the annual Pedal for The J’s cycle ride and The J’s Hospice charity, raising a few hundred pounds since 2013. Wolf cycled 50 miles in 2014 but could not take part last year as his disability flared up again, making it difficult for him to walk.

This year, Wolf is cycling the 35 mile route again. He has been tweeting his 762 followers on Twitter as well as contacting his friends and followers on Facebook and Google+ to get them to sign up too or sponsor him as he hopes to raise £200 this year. He is really looking forward to the event which gives him the chance to look back and see how far his health has improved now he is cycling again. He explains: “Pedal for The J’s is fun to do, socially enjoyable and the registration fees are affordable. As someone who became disabled in my early 20s, I fully understand the hardship this brings and so I’m happy to raise money for The J’s Hospice which is such a good cause.”

The J’s Hospice charity provides enhanced care to patients and their families including tailored specialist nursing, respite and advice as well as end of life care and bereavement support in the comfort and security of their own homes. Last year, over 800 cyclists took part in Pedal for The J’s, raising £45,000.

Cyclists can sign up on Sunday for the 15, 35 or 50 mile circular routes at Admiral’s Park, Chelmsford from 8am. It costs £20 per adult and £8 per child which includes refreshments along the ride and a commemorative medal.For more information, please visit The J’s Hospice website www.thejshospice.org.uk Pedal for The J’s is sponsored by Beaulieu and supported by radio partner Heart Essex and media partner the Essex Chronicle.