Stage One started in Rome with wintry conditions offering a tough challenge to Dallaglio and his peers.His squad of cyclists  include ex-footballers Lee Dixon and Les Ferdinand who have cycled into the Bourgogne region of the south of France set for Stage Two to commence.

By Sunday 21 February, Dallaglio and his crew had cycled a remarkable 1225km, leaving them with with 1663km remaining. Having negotiated through the relatively traffic-free countryside of France, the team are now set to enter the manic streets of Paris.

Dallaglio: “I’m nervous but aiming to raise £1m, its a round                                                 number, but also happens to be a big round number.”

Lawrence is on course to complete the cycle in his desired 24 days.

For more information of the ride visit:   www.sportrelief.com/whats-on/challenges/dallaglio/donate

The Hitman is on the hunt for a new training team ahead of his comeback after parting ways with Lee Beard.

Beard has left the United Kingdom to take up a training appointment in America. Rumours are speculating that he will be taking charge of former super-heavyweight world champion, Joan Guzman.

Team Hatton released a statement: “Lee has strong family connections in America and we fully understand his wish to move out there.’’

Beard became more heavily involved with the fighter after Hatton parted company with his former trainer Billy Graham in 2008.

Hatton fell short with his last few fights, being comprehensively beaten by Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. However, he wishes to regain some respect and fight once more.

The statement continued: “As far as Ricky is concerned, he has not made any decision as to who will be replacing Floyd Mayweather Sr as his trainer and he will address this issue on his return from holiday.”

“Matthew Hatton will continue his training for his fight at Fenton Manor, Stoke on 19 February under the wing of Bob Shannon. In the meantime Ricky, Matthew and everyone in the Hatton Camp wish Lee every success for the future.”

The probable next opponent of Hatton will be WBA lightweight champion Juan Manuel Marquez.