HOW would you like to cycle along one of the wonders of the world - experiencing China and the Great Wall on a nine-day bike ride of a lifetime.

I'd like to invite you to saddle up in support of Mencap by taking part in this fascinating challenge. Mencap simply ask participants to pay a £300 registration fee and raise a minimum amount of sponsorship. After that, flights, bikes, accommodation and meals are all free. The ride takes place in June, 2000. It's a chance to get fit and make new friends and, most importantly, your support will give people with learning disabilities and their families an opportunity to make the most of their lives.

Please call 0645 777 779 to receive the free China Bike Ride, Mencap, FREEPOST, London EC1B 1AA. You can also email Mencap at mencap.events@dial.pipex.com or fax to 0171 696 5540.

I went on the Mencap bike ride last year to Egypt. We raised more than £250,000 and had a marvellous time.

EDWINA CURRIE, for Mencap, Golden Lane, London EC1.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.