Newent Rotary Club president John Shaw is back in the saddle for Gloucestershire charity Sue Ryder.

He took part in Ride for Ryder earlier this summer and on Thursday (August 25) he started the 1,225 mile ride from Land’s End to John O’Groats.

It will take 28 days which is longer than usual for “Lejog” because he wants to spend time spreading the word about the Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court hospice.

“Being a participant of Ride for Ryder has given me insight into the incredible team at Sue Ryder and its fantastic supporters.

“Raising the funds is paramount and raising the profile of what Sue Ryder does is very important too.

“I want to allow time to talk to people, including Rotary Clubs along the way.

“We have 11 Districts of Rotary along my cycle route.

“We have been in contact with them so that we can gain support and help spread the Sue Ryder message.

“I am very grateful for all of the support I am receiving,”

John is being supported by his wife, Sally, who will drop him off at his next location and pick him up each day.

“Sally will lead my team support while I am cycling.

“In the South West we have family and friends who are kindly hosting us in locations along the route.

“Going further north from September 7 onwards, I will be joined by friends and fellow Rotarians for stages until reaching Scotland when Sally rejoins me, probably around Edinburgh,”

Donations can be made through a page on www.justgiving.com.