WHEN it comes to raising money for charity, Fylde Mayor Paul Hayhurst has only got one thing to say -- on yer bike!

September 11 sees willing cyclists join the mayor in a 40-mile ride around St Annes to raise money for neurone disease charities.

These diseases are close to the councillor's heart because he was once a victim of Guillian-Barre Syndrome, a paralysing condition in which the body's antibodies eat away at the nerve linings

Fifteen years ago, Coun Hayhurst was in the intensive care unit of Royal Preston Hospital on a life support machine after the paralysis spread to his chest and diaphragm. "Most people having had a serious illness have little opportunity to help others who contract the same illness," said Coun Hayhurst, pictured here being given a helping hand by his attendant Peter Biggs.

"I am lucky however. Not only have I made a full recovery but I am also privileged to be elected as the mayor of Fylde for the next 12 months, giving me a platform from which I can help to raise funds." The main fund-raising event of the year, which takes place on Sunday September 17, is a flat, easy-going route suitable for everyone and with plenty of opportunities to stop and have refreshments.

Cyclists will set out on the circular route from St Annes town hall and ride the 40-mile course which passes through all the towns and villages in Fylde Borough.

Entrance to the ride is £3, although it will be free for anyone who raises sponsorship for more than this amount.

The chosen charities are Guillian-Barre Syndrome charity, the Motor Neurone Diseases charity and Multiple Sclerosis.

Anyone interested in taking part in the ride or sponsoring Coun Hayhurst or willing to help with the marshalling can contact Anne McVittie at the Town Hall on (01253) 721222.