A SUFFOLK BT worker is preparing for the ride of his life today.Dad-of-one Tim Glover is leaving for a trip to Turkey and Syria on Sunday which will culminate in an 80-mile bike ride.

A SUFFOLK BT worker is preparing for the ride of his life today.

Dad-of-one Tim Glover is leaving for a trip to Turkey and Syria on Sunday which will culminate in an 80-mile bike ride.

Mr Glover, 43, of Church Road, Chelmondiston, hopes the cycle ride will help him raise £500 for the charity Islamic Relief, as well as providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

But he admitted his trip has also caused some controversy.

He said: “When I mention Islamic Relief people breathe in sharply, convinced it is a front for a terrorist organisation.

“Actually, IR is a UK-based charity giving humanitarian aid to people of all faiths in countries across the world, rather like a Muslim version of Christian Aid.

“People also wince when I mention Syria, which has had a bad press ever since it was labelled part of the "axis of evil". But I think this image is unfounded.

“It has a reputation for being very friendly.”

Mr Glover said he would be flying to Gaziantep in Turkey on Sunday before taking a taxi to Aleppo, across the border in northern Syria.

He then plans to buy a bike, take a train to Hama, and then cycle down the Orontes Valley.

He added: “I chose this route because it should be flat. My bike may not have gears, and the temperature in June can reach 47C.

“I am really excited about the trip - I love to travel and see different cultures and ways of life.”

To support Mr Glover visit www.justgiving.com/TimGlover.

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