Former soldier in marathon bike ride for forces charity

Richard Brankin will join 300 riders cycling the 300 miles from London to Paris in just four days. The gruelling ride, in aid of the Legion, takes the cyclists from Greenwich Park, London, through the beautiful countryside of Kent and northern France right into the centre of Paris.

Mr Brankin, 42, from Lofthouse, Wakefield, will set off on September 1 and the riders aim to cycle down the Avenue de la Grande Armee in Paris at around 3pm on Sunday, September 4. They will the parade down the Champs Elysee to arrive at the Arc de Triomphe, where the ride ends in a moving ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The Pedal to Paris event attracts people from all over the world, participants this year coming from as far afield as Canada and Hong Kong.

Mr Brankin was encouraged to take part by two colleagues who have taken part in the challenge for the last couple of years.

He said: “The Pedal to Paris isn’t just a journey from A to B but a ride that embraces the British and French spirit of camaraderie and respect.

“The hard work of the riders is rewarded with the overwhelming hospitality of the French locals who welcome us into their picturesque villages. On the route the services of remembrance we share to honour the fallen on both sides will also serve to reinforce how important the work of the Legion is today and will provide a poignant backdrop to the event.”

He added: “Having served in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers for 15 years and reached the rank of sergeant I am only too aware of the great work of the Royal British Legion.”

Mr Brankin is hoping to raise at least £1,000 towards the legion’s welfare work.

The director of national events and fundraising at the Legion, Russell Thompson, said: “We are very grateful to Richard for taking on the Pedal to Paris challenge. It really is an incredible event and an amazing experience for those involved who have to put in a considerable amount of training to help them prepare.”

This year is the 90th anniversary of the Royal British Legion. To support Mr Brankin visit the website www.justgiving.com/richard-brankin