A MOTORCYCLIST is going on a 3,000-mile sponsored ride throughout Britain to raise money for the Prospect Hospice.

Frankie Cox, 37, a builders merchants' assistant manager from Raybrook Crescent, Rodbourne, hopes to raise up to £1,500.

He chose the hospice, which cares for some of the most seriously ill people in the area, because he thinks that it is a worthy local cause.

Mr Cox has been a motorcyclist for two years and spent many years as a speedway mechanic, chiefly for Swindon Robins rider Alun Rossiter.

He said: "I am taking this challenge because as well as enjoying myself I will have a chance to raise some money for a good cause."

The Motor Challenge of Great Britain, which Mr Cox is tackling on his 1995 Yamaha TDM 850, is being organised by motorcycle tour specialist Nick Sanders. It includes 60 participants from around the country.

Mr Cox will ride to the Santa Pod drag strip in Buckinghamshire for the start on Saturday. The route will take the riders through Brynbach in Wales and on to North Wales, then Gretna Green in South-West Scotland, the Isle of Mull off the West of Scotland, John O'Groats, the Knockhill motor racing circuit near Glasgow, and back to the finish at Tonfanau in mid-Wales.

Mr Cox is still welcoming sponsorship. He can be contacted on 07720 033084.