CHARITY PEDAL POWER

AN intrepid trio of cyclists from Newick aim to cycle the 350 miles from Land's End to Newick next month while raising money to combat motor neurone disease.

At an age when they qualify for free bus travel, John Coplestone (61) and Brian Higgins (63) will be accompanied by stripling Brian Shears (24.)

The Three Men on Bikes chose their charity when their 56-year-old friend Keith Shears was diagnosed with motor neurone disease.

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Mr Coplestone said: 'We grew up together cycling and had great days on the London to Brighton ride. So it seemed appropriate to take up a challenge that has a direct link to Keith while also creating general awareness of the condition.'

He added: 'We've been training since mid-winter and know it will be hard in places for people of advancing years. But the overnight stops may include the odd visit to a pub and that's another opportunity to put cash in the coffers.'

The cyclists will set out on May 13 with the intention of being back in Newick on May 21 in time to join a fundraising day for the Motor Neurone Disease Association at Newick Recreation Ground.

Motor neurone disease is a severely debilitating condition that afflicts thousands of people in the UK. The riders aim to raise funds through direct personal sponsorship, collections en route and at the end-of-ride party on the Sunday afternoon where there will be live music, stalls, and refreshments.

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