Vanunu Feedom Ride

For telling the world that Israel was secretly developing nuclear weapons, Mordechai Vanunu spent 18 years in prison – 12 of these in solitary confinement. Vanunu was released from prison in April 2004, but is still not a free man. His freedom of speech, movement and association are all severely restricted (the continuing restrictions are due for renewal on 21^st April) in clear contravention of his human rights. He is denied a passport, is not allowed to leave Israel and suffers continuing harassment by the Israeli authorities. 20 years’ detention is 20 years too long.

To protest at Mordechai’s continuing persecution, to demand his complete freedom and the dismantling of all nuclear weapons, the Vanunu Freedom Ride is being organised – a bicycle ride starting on 7^th April at Faslane, the UK's nuclear weapons base, travelling on to Glasgow, and ending in London on 21^st April. The ride will stop at various towns and cities on the way, where events will be held to raise awareness of Vanunu’s situation and Israel’s nuclear weapons – still secret and not subject to international inspection.

David Polden of London Region CND is planning to cycle the first week of the ride, from Faslane to Lancaster, and the final day into London. He's hoping to raise sponsorship money which will be used to help defray the costs of organising the ride and towards Vanunu's legal costs. If you wish to sponsor him, send a cheque made out to "Vanunu Freedom Ride" to London Region CND, 162 Holloway Road, N7 8DQ.

Rosemary and Gill are also intending to represent Kingston Peace Council by taking part in the Ride on the last day as it reaches London.