AN EX-SERVICEMAN is taking on a 2,000-mile motorcycle ride around England’s police headquarters to raise money for fallen soldiers and police officers.

Paul Carter, 52, will visit 39 police HQ’s and two army venues during the six-day challenge.

He will be joined by various members of his motorcycle club, the Blue Knights England V which has members from across the north west.

The trip has been organised to raise money in memory of the two police officers shot dead in Manchester in September 2012, and Lee Rigby, the drummer killed in London earlier this year.

Money will be donated to the Royal British Legion and UK Care of Police Survivors.

Mr Carter, who has 30 years experience working in the army and in the prison service, said: “These two charities do valuable work for families of fallen officers and soldiers, who I want to promote with the Blue Knights.”

On the trip itself, Mr Carter said: “I’m well prepared. I rode the length and breadth of Scotland in 2004 without touching a motorway, so I’m used to long rides.”

Mr Carter, of Sefton Close in Altham, said others wishing to support him are welcome to join the ride at any of the planned waypoints.

The trip is due to begin on Monday, July 22 at 10am from Manchester Police HQ, and will finish at approximately 1pm on Saturday, July 27, in Wakefield.

The motorcyclists involved will travel as far south as Somerset, before riding up to Durham in the north east.

A journey plan for the trip can be found at www.blueknightsengland5.co.uk You can also donate to either of Paul’s chosen charities by visiting www.justgiving.com/BluesandGreens to give to UK Care of Police Survivors, or www.justgiving.com/BluesandGreensrbl to give to the Royal British Legion.