A POLICEMAN will tackle Central American life when he gets on his bike to cycle across Mexico in aid of charity.

Adrian Todd, a detective inspector based at Kidderminster Police Station, Habberley Road, will take on a 450 kilometer bike challenge in support of Acorns' Three Counties Appeal.

The 39-year-old will complete the challenge in his own time, and hopes to collect more than £5,000 for the charity. Adrian Todd is up for a Mexican challenge.

Adrian is set to cycle around Mexico in February and the ride will take him from the ancient city of Merida, across the Yucatan Peninsula to Puerto Aventuras, where he will be able to swim with dolphins.

Olympic gold medal-winning cyclist Chris Boardman is among 21 challengers who will join him.

The money raised will be used to build a new Acorns hospice in Worcester, which is expected to open in 2004, but "Bike Mexico" is a real personal challenge for Adrian.

He said: "There are a number of things I'd like to achieve before I'm 40 and when my parents, who are very much involved in fundraising for Acorns, told me about this event, I thought I've just got to go for it.

"I'm a keen cyclist and I've completed the London to Brighton bike ride and a few local bike-a-thons, so hopefully these will stand me in good stead."

To sponsor Adrian or for more information on "Bike Mexico" or other Acorns challenge events call 01905 767676.