A TRAINEE butcher is hoping to complete the three-day London to Paris cycle run to raise money for The Stroke Association.Craig Alderton, 20, an apprentice at the Suffolk Food Hall, Wherstead Road, Ipswich, is aiming to raise �500 for the charity when he cycles his way through the 139-mile journey.

A TRAINEE butcher is hoping to complete the three-day London to Paris cycle run to raise money for The Stroke Association.

Craig Alderton, 20, an apprentice at the Suffolk Food Hall, Wherstead Road, Ipswich, is aiming to raise �500 for the charity when he cycles his way through the 139-mile journey.

Starting the trek on July 17 at Bexley, just outside London, Mr Alderton will ride to Dover where a ferry will take him and fellow fundraisers to Calais. After navigating their way through the Northern France terrain, they will cross the finishing line just outside the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

Mr Alderton believes his active lifestyle will put him in good stead for the challenging route.

He said: “I am really looking forward to this challenge. I have completed fundraising events before, and regular running and cycling keep me fit. However, this event will be a real test of stamina, so I recently cycled to Lowestoft and back to help my body prepare.

“My family and friends are very proud of me and have all sponsored me. It definitely is a worthwhile challenge, and it will be a great experience. I just hope now I will be able to complete it.”

The Stroke Association supports patients of all ages and their families, and funds research into prevention and treatment of the condition.

Anyone who would like to sponsor Craig should visit him at the Suffolk Food Hall during the week where sponsor forms will be available.