A Bradford athlete is gearing up for a sponsored cycle ride to help boost the district's success in the Special Olympics.

Steven Jowett will be getting on his bike on Saturday for a 22-mile ride along the Leeds-Liverpool Canal from Shipley.

The 44-year-old is one of the district's 31-strong squad - the largest group from the region - going for gold in the National Olympic Games in Glasgow in July next year.

Now Bradford Sport and Recreation Association for People with Disabilities (BSRAPD) is raising £20,000 to help the team realise their dreams.

The cash will pay for entry and training costs.

Steven, of Shipley, who has learning difficulties, is a tenpin bowler.

"We had a meeting about how we could raise money and I said 'I'll get on my bike and do my bit for the Special Olympics'," he said.

"I would like to thank my family and friends for the help they have given so far and I hope people walking along the canal will support me on the day."

Last year a group of five athletes won 16 medals in the Special Olympics in Dublin.

And the team has been tipped by organisers to bring back even more next year.

BSRAPD chairman Pauline Montgomery said she hoped Bradfordians would show their generosity.

"The money has already started to come in but we have a long way to go," she said.

"People in Bradford are very generous and we hope they help us support the team, a team which we can all be proud of.

"They can help in lots of ways, such as organising an event or sponsoring an athlete."

The games run from July 1 to 9 and include a number of heats.

A fundraising fun day and barbecue will be held at Woodville Training Centre, in Woodville Road, Keighley, on Saturday, August 7, 12.30pm to 5.30pm.

Donations are being sought for a raffle which will be held on the day.

Anyone who can help back the appeal can contact Rob Cooper or Barry Thorne at BSRAPD on (01274) 437093 or e-mail: admin@bradforddisabilitysports.org.uk