A SOLDIER from the Ribble Valley is looking for a helping hand to get into the saddle for a marathon fund-raising cycle ride.

Richard Taylforth, whose family lives in Ribchester, is hoping to take part in a 250-mile sponsored pedal across Israel in aid of charities which help abused children.

The only problem is, he needs to have £1,800-worth of sponsorship guaranteed before he can even enter the event and well over £1,000 of that must be promised by October 1!

Richard, 20, who has recently served a tour in Bosnia, is back at his base in Hampshire, but has been in East Lancashire to drum up sponsorship. He has already received a big boost from Stonyhurst College's Learning to Care group which has promised £500.

His mum Valerie, of Water Street, said: "The army has asked for volunteers to take part in this cycle ride and Richard is keen to have a go.

"It is costing him £200 out of his own pocket."

Anyone who can help is asked to contact Mrs Taylforth or Richard on 01254 878433.

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