Based in Buckinghamshire inside a small former school building, staff at the Puzzle Centre work on a one-to-one basis with children who are on the autism spectrum, or who have other communication difficulties. The early intervention charity also provides advice and sessions for parents to further help with their understanding of the various techniques available to aid their child's progression.
Both Mallinder and Facer were humbled by the work being done at the Puzzle Centre and agreed the visit only heightened their levels of motivation ahead of the 197km slog on a stage of the famous Tour de France.
"The training is tough and I still have a lot of mileage to go in preparation, but a day like today makes it all worthwhile," Mallinder said. "Just to walk around and meet the children and their parents - the help they receive from the centre and its staff is truly fantastic."
"I think the support they give to the parents as well as the children themselves is invaluable," added Facer. "It's a small charity that needs every bit of help it can get and what they do every day makes our challenge pale in significance. As we're going up those mountains all we'll have to think about is what some parents go through day after day. If we can help in any small way it's a great incentive for us."
You can help too, simply by visiting www.justgiving.com/RingsofFire and donating to the duo's effort and a worthy cause.
For more information on the Puzzle Centre and their work, head to www.puzzlecentre.org.uk
Mallinder and Facer's L'Etape challenge is also being supported by Trek Store MK, who provided the pair with a custom built black, green and gold Trek bike as well as other essential equipment. You can find out more by visiting www.trekmk.com
