A KEIGHLEY Rotarian is cycling the length of Britain to raise money for charity.

Mike Baines aims to cover the 951-or-so miles, from Land’s End to John O’Groats, in ten days.

Proceeds are going to Alzheimer’s UK and Project 6, a Keighley-based charity which provides services for individuals and families with drug and alcohol problems.

“At the beginning of the year I decided I needed a challenge in 2018 so decided on the cycle ride,” said Mike.

“I discovered that Project 6 was the chosen charity of our club president, Chris Pickles, in his year of office.

“It really resonated that here was an organisation that was saying ‘look, there are better times ahead for you if you’ll let us help you. We won’t judge you. We won’t criticise you. It won’t be easy. Just let us help’.”

Mike will set off from Land’s End on Friday, June 29, and is aiming to arrive at his destination on July 8.

He will follow a route along roads, canal towpaths and riverside paths and will be self-supporting, carrying all his own bike spares.

Keighley Rotary Club is arranging accommodation for him through other Rotarians en route.

Mike was in Keighley’s Airedale Shopping Centre on Saturday, together with staff from Project 6, to publicise the ride and raise awareness of the charity’s work.

Rotarians are fundraising to provide new equipment for an IT suite in the Project 6 progress recovery centre.

Mr Pickles said: “As Keighley club president I fully support Mike’s venture and admire him for taking on this gruelling journey in order to raise funds for Project 6 and Alzheimer’s charities.”

Vicky Beere, chief executive officer of Project 6, said she was hugely grateful for the support.

She added: “Our progress recovery centre doesn’t just help people to change their use of drugs or alcohol, it also helps them gain the skills, confidence and motivation to progress in life, give back to their local communities and move into education, training and employment.

“Having access to computers allows people to gain the IT skills that are so necessary these days.

“We’re looking forward to following Mike’s journey and we wish him the best of luck.”

To sponsor Mike, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/mike-on-a-bike-lejog-p6.