AN AFRICAN student in Preston will be putting the wheels in motion when he sets of on a marathon bike ride.

Tendai Tsanga, 28, who comes from Zimbabwe, will be on the mission of a lifetime when he cycles the length of the country from Land's End to John O'Groats.

And Tendai (pictured), who will soon be in the third year of an agriculture degree at Myerscough College, is doing the 1,000-mile ride to raise money for poor farmers in his native land.

Tendai will be supporting the charity FARfrica, which is currently involved in providing aid to the drought ridden areas of Konso in southern Ethiopia which have suffered four failed harvests.

Looking forward to his gruelling adventure, Tendai said: "Training's going well so far. I've been doing about 75 miles day, building up to my aim of about 90.

"I'm looking forward to working in rural communities again and developing the farming systems back home."

In his efforts to help some of the poorest rural families in Africa, Tendai is not only appealing for sponsorship but would also be grateful for any offers of spare bicycle tubes, a pump and any old camping gear.

If you think you could help Tendai, you can contact him on 01995 640407 or send a donation to him at Sunbreak, Garstang Road, Barton, Preston PR3 5AD.