A WORCESTER man is using pedal power, to raise money for St Richard's Hospice.

John Day plans to cycle the gruelling journey from Lands End to John O'Groats next week, a distance of almost 1,000 miles, despite having not cycled such so far before.

Mr Day, of Ostler Drive, St John's, is certainly taking on a challenge far beyond what he is used to.

"The furthest I've cycled in a week before was 120 miles."

"I know it's going to be tough, but not nearly as tough as life is for many of the patients being cared for by St Richard's."

He was motivated to ride after being made redundant from a local steel company, deciding it was the ideal time to do the trip. He has has been getting as much advice as he can from experienced cyclists, before he sets off.

Tricia Cavell, St Richard's Hospice fund-raising manager said everyone connected with the hospice wished him well.

"We are the hugely grateful to John for taking on this journey and wish him the best of luck," she said.

John hopes to raise around £2,000 towards the work of the hospice, which helps people with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.

The Worcester Golf and Cricket Club, where he is a member, have already offered their support.

The money will go on the building of a new state-of-the-art hospice, in grounds close to County Hall in Worcester, offering home care, bereavement, therapy and counselling services. Campaigners are working to raise the remaining £1.05 million required.