A MILKWALL man is planning a 300-mile bike ride from London to Paris to help the charity which supported his spine-injured brother.

He is also planning a charity golf day at Forest Hills Golf Club to support the same cause.

Richard Biddington, 30, from Milkwall is preparing to take part in the London to Paris Cycling Challenge at the end of June and raise money for the Spinal Injuries Association (SIA).

"Back in 2000 my brother, Steve, suffered a spinal injury and during his time in hospital he received invaluable help and advice from the SIA," says Richard.

"I would like to raise as much money as I can to say thank you to the SIA for the support they gave Steve and our family during what was a very difficult time for us all.

"We are so thankful for this charity and any money I raise will help them continue to provide such a fantastic service and aid with future campaigns.

"It will certainly be my biggest personal challenge and I'm really looking forward to it."

To help raise funds for the cycle challenge, Richard is organising a charity golf and fun day at Forest Hills Golf Club on Sunday April 1, teeing off at 12 noon.

Richard is still looking for keen golfers to attend, so if you are interested please get in touch soon by email at [email protected]">[email protected] and secure your place with a deposit. Groups of players welcome too.

The fun day will take place from 12 noon and will continue into the afternoon, everyone is welcome to come along there will be a bouncy castle and large outdoor games, guess the number of sweets in a jar, face painting, a barbecue and a raffle with prizes kindly donated by local businesses on offer.

Richard said he was overwhelmed with the support he has already received from local businesses.

Richard's brother Steve, 28, who lives in Bream, said: "I think what Richard is doing is very touching as the SIA has been a very valuable support system to myself and my family since my accident."

Richard can also be sponsored online through his JustGiving page http://www.justgiving.com/biddy-sia">www.justgiving.com/biddy-sia