CLIFF Lane shopkeepers have pledged £150 to sponsor Ipswich man Barry Andrews, who is undertaking a 30-mile bike ride in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Golden Jubilee Appeal.

CLIFF Lane shopkeepers have pledged £150 to sponsor Ipswich man Barry Andrews, who is undertaking a 30-mile bike ride in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Golden Jubilee Appeal.

The sponsorship money donated to Mr Andrews, who has been treated for bowel cancer, was raised through two annual street fairs in Cliff Lane. The bike ride is being organised by Mr Andrews, who is taking part in fancy dress as Winnie the Pooh.

Ipswich butcher George Debman has been particularly impressed with the courage of his customer and is lending him his support.

He said: "One of the reasons for backing him is because I really admire the guy. The appeal is a thing close to the heart of traders in this area as we lost a shopkeeper to cancer a few years ago.

"Thirty miles in a Whinnie the Pooh outfit takes some doing."

Customers at Mr Debman's butchers', on Cliff Lane, have donated a further £50 to boost the appeal. In addition, Mr Debman is laying on refreshments outside his butchers' for all the competitors in the bike ride. Bacon butties, sausage rolls, teas and coffees will all be on offer.

Mr Andrews has also received the backing of Sir Bobby Robson, who sent him a letter of support. He also added his signature to the list of Town players who have signed his car, which is being auctioned off for charity.

The bike ride is taking place on Sunday and anyone who wants to take part or to sponsor Barry should call him on 01473 431202 or his partner, Josie, on 01473 421169.