Tomlinson family follow in Jane's cycle tracks with epic ride from Istanbul

Mike Tomlinson, who will be joined by his daughter Rebecca and others, plans to spend five weeks cycling from Istanbul to Leeds over the summer.

The 2,500-mile journey will take them through 12 countries including Turkey, Bulgaria, Hungary, and Germany.

"The bike rides epitomises what Jane did and we sat there and said it would be good to do another bike ride. I think if she were here she would absolutely love to do it," Mr Tomlinson said.

The group will cycle 90 miles a day, deal with temperatures that could be as high as 40C and because they are travelling across 12 countries cope with a number of border crossings. In places road conditions will be difficult and they will also have to contend with tough climbs.

The five-week challenge will begin at the end of July and the cyclists plan to return to Leeds at the end of August. The money raised will go to Jane's Appeal.

Mr Tomlinson said they had decided to set off from Istanbul because they wanted to go across Europe.

"We will see quite a lot of Eastern Europe so it will be quite an adventure," he said.

The bike ride will be launched in Leeds today.

Mr Tomlinson admits he is not really a cyclist and needs to put in a bit of training saying: "I have not done any cycling yet so the challenge will be getting fit enough to go.

"I am not sure I will be able to get out of Istanbul at this rate."

However Mr Tomlinson and Rebecca have an idea of what to expect. In 2008 they both cycled 1,400 miles from Land's End to John O'Groats.

People can follow the journey on www.istanbultoleeds.co.uk or donate on www.justigiving. com/Istanbul-to-Leeds-2010