Big names are starting to join up with Maiden Manager Rod Smallwood and Hammer Editor Alexander Milas’ upcoming Heavy Metal Truants Charity bike ride from London to Donington! Heroes, each and every one.

The first few onboard and ready to hit the road with us are  Trivium’s Paolo Gregoletto, Paradise Lost frontman Nick Holmes and Young Guns drummer Ben Jolliffe – as well as Classic Rock Editor-In-Chief Scott Rowley, Prog  Editor Jerry Ewing, Planet Rock presenter Wyatt Wendels  and Scuzz, who will be bringing their cameras.! We will announce more band members soon.

“I decided to do this ride, ignoring the fact that I haven’t been on a bike in something like 10 years, because it’s for an incredible cause, surrounded by great people,” says Young Gun’s Ben. “I’ll be coming fresh off tour from the States to join an army of unfit musicians, industry folk and good friends. It will mean I’ll be arriving at Download Festival covered in sweat and probably vomit, but it will all be worth it!”

“I’m always one for getting off your arse to do something useful,” adds Jerry. “Even better though, when you can actually sit on your arse and do your bit for charity. Especially when you’ve got three days to do it. My team have been very supportive. And are very much looking forward to seeing me limp around the Download site for the entire weekend.”

“I didn’t want to do this, to be honest, but it’s for a good cause and there’s no way I’m getting out-manned by the Editor of some fuckin’ heavy metal magazine,” notes Scott.

On June 12 at 9am, the gang will be riding 161 miles from London’s Alexandra Palace all the way to Donington Park for Download 2013, pulling into the festival around lunchtime on June 14, just in time to see the likes of Slipknot, Bullet For My Valentine and Korn.

All proceeds from the ride will go to three charities: Nordoff Robbins, Teenage Cancer Trust and Childline.

“Metal fans are concerned about stuff like this – we’re an active crowd,” notes Rod. “Metal fans get off their asses and do things. It’s communal, a fraternity, and I hope this opportunity will be appealing to them.”

Heavy Metal Truants have received a groundswell of support from the industry, bands, and fans alike, and sponsored riders have signed up from Parlophone, Sony Music, Universal/EMI, BMG Rights, 5B Artist Management, Raw Power, Phantom, The Agency and others. Already well past the half way mark with over 25 signed up , including the first few fans, you need to get your skates on to join this crazed bunch of musicians, fans, managers, editors, media, labels, agents and music biz heavyweights!.

Head to www.heavymetaltruants.com for more info and to find out how YOU can joing the ride. On yer bikes!