A CHAMPION strongman is to ride 127 miles in one trip along the Leeds and Liverpool canal to raise money for the Poppy Mai Foundation.

Wayne Fulton will join 10 others to raise cash in memory of Poppy Mai Barnard who died of an aggressive form of cancer at 17-months-old last year.

Mr Fulton, 34, of Harle Syke, Burnley organised the Poppy Mai Truck Pull at Turf Moor last year raising £4,000.

This time the cyclists will set off from Liverpool riding 127 miles to Leeds through the night to complete the challenge in 18 hours.

Mr Fulton said it will be no easy feat.

The dad-of-one, who hit the headlines after being beaten up while cycling to work, said: “I have been planning the event for the last 10 months and along with some of the other riders have had some practice sessions in November and March, which helped sort the men from the boys.

“We think it will take about 18 hours to complete, with six planned stops for the team to have food and drink and of course a well-earned rest.

“We have a support team and van accompanying us along the route armed with first aid kits, bike spares, food and drink and blankets.

“The support team will also be cooking up a well-earned breakfast for the riders at the half-way point.

“Family and friends will be waiting at the finish line to support us over the line.”

He said they have already achieved their fundraising target of £2,000 but hope to raise more.

Joining Wayne will be Keith Cocker, Gary Cocker, John Courteen, David Hudson, Lee Ormerod, Mark Heritage, Jainy Smith, Lee Allen, Ged Dickinson and Jonny Cox.

It is sponsored by Chess ICT where Mr Fulton works as an IT manager, and Michael Tom Stationers, George Boocock Painter and Decorators, Burnley Cycle Centre, SIS Sports Nutrition, Worsthorne Mountain Bike Club and The Village Hotel, Bury

The riders will set off on Friday (June 30) at 7pm.

For information on how to donate or sponsor the team contact Wayne on Facebook.