AMPUTEE Ben Lord is all set to begin a 300-mile fundraising cycle challenge across southern Spain.

Mr Lord, 26, from Great Somerford, travels to Granada on Sunday for the week-long ride, which will take him from the city, across to Seville.

The motorbike mechanic had his right leg amputated above the knee following a motorcycle accident in February 1999.

He is undertaking the cycle ride alongside 30 other people from across the UK, including two other amputees. Mr Lord is donating all money raised to the Douglas Bader Foundation, which supports amputees.

His route was originally scheduled to take place along the Israeli border of Jordan but was switched to Spain because of tension in the Middle East.

"I think it's going to be tough work but I know my head can do it even if my body can't," said Mr Lord, who has raised £2,000 so far.

"I'm nervous at the moment but I am sure that as soon as I get on the plane out there I will be fine."

Mr Lord said his route will be mostly through countryside and the first day will take him from Granada to the town of Olja, before moving on to Lucena on the second day.

Day three will see the cyclists ride from Lucena to Cordoba, and then on to Palma Del Rio on day four.

One the final day the cyclists hope to arrive at the finishing line, travelling from Palma Del Rio to Seville.

"I have been doing a lot of training, and took my push bike out to Spain last week, when I was in Valencia and Cartagena, and managed about 20km per day," said Mr Lord, who was in Spain working with the Ducati motorcycling team.

At home Mr Lord said he has adapted his bike and been training for about four months, cycling about 10-15 miles most days.

He said he would like to pay particular thanks to sponsors Sweetnam and Bradley, metal fabricators from Malmesbury, and The King's Arms, in the High Street. Anyone wishing to sponsor Mr Lord should ring him on (01249) 720141.