Dilton Marsh postie’s special 280-mile ride

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Dilton Marsh postman, Allen Laker, will be giving his all for charity Scope when he undertakes an extreme endurance event, the London to Paris 2-hour cycle challenge, on Saturday, July 5.

The 65-year old will be the oldest participant when he takes part in the 280-mile overnight challenge.

He aims is to complete the route in fewer than 24 hours.

So far he has raised nearly £1,800 for the charity, but hopes the money will keep coming in ahead of the race.

Mr Laker, who lives with his wife Christine, 63, in Lansdowne Close, said: “Last year I took part in the 100 -mile Prudential RideLondon-Surrey Sportive, over the 2012 Olympic road race course, but realised I needed to do something more challenging.

“My training for the event has been disrupted by a recent illness. However, it is slowly getting back on track.”

“Before the illness I rode 146 miles from Dilton Marsh to Eastbourne and regularly ride at least three times a week of between 30 and 100 miles.”

He rides with the Westbury Wheelers cycle club.

Debbie Bines, head of events for Scope, said: “This is an extreme endurance cycle which pushes riders to their absolute limits and we’re thrilled that Allen has taken on this huge challenge.”

He also did a ‘spinathon’ session at the Dilton Marsh’s Village Day on Saturday raising a further £100 by riding his bike on rollers for three- and-a-half hours.

Mr Laker has been a postman for nine years. Previously he was in the RAF for 37 years. He has two grown-up children.

Scope provides support and advice to disabled people, carers and healthcare professionals in the UK.

To Sponsor the Mr Laker, go to: http://www.virginmoneygiving.com/AllenLaker" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;