A BIG-hearted worker from Sharoe Green Hospital, in Preston, is gearing up for a challenge of a lifetime.

Charity champ Gordon Jackson, 46, of Almond Close, Penwortham, will be putting the wheels in motion when he sets off on a cycle trek along the banks of the River Nile.

His 500km mercy mission is set to take place early next year in a bid to raise loads of cash for Mencap, the national charity for people with learning disabilities.

And the hospital ward manager could not believe his luck when the caring owner of Preston's Nile takeaway offered to sponsor his bike challenge.

Generous Noorahmed Raja, who owns the Church Street food outlet, was more than happy to hand over £500 toward Gordon's fund-raising stint.

He said: "I'm always trying to help out local charities in Preston and put something back into the community. "It seemed a good idea with us being called the Nile but the most important thing was that it was for charity."

But fighting fit Gordon, who is married with two sons, still needs to raise lots more money before embarking on his Egyptian pedal push.

And, with a minimum of £1,950 yet to find, he is calling on people to dig deep and help him conquer his inaugural cycle challenge for charity.

He said: "I've never done anything like this before but I'm really looking forward to it and thought that Mencap was a worthy cause because it touches everybody.

"I've written to so many organisations asking for their help and I couldn't believe it when Mr Raja said he would donate so much. He has been such a great help."

Individuals or organisations wishing to donate money to Gordon should call the Preston Citizen newsroom on (01772) 824631.