A PEDAL pushing police worker is getting in the saddle for a charity bike ride as a tribute to his late father-in-law.Colin Jackson from Martlesham Heath is joining his brother-in-law Geoff Knott in a 275-mile ride to Paris in aid of the British Legion.

A PEDAL pushing police worker is getting in the saddle for a charity bike ride as a tribute to his late father-in-law.

Colin Jackson from Martlesham Heath is joining his brother-in-law Geoff Knott in a 275-mile ride to Paris in aid of the British Legion.

Even though he had hardly ridden a bike before March this year, Mr Jackson decided the ride would be a great way to raise money in memory of his wife's father, Jim Sweetland.

Mr Sweetland was former chairman of the Sittingbourne Branch of the Legion and devoted much of his time to them.

Mr Jackson 53, who is project manager for Suffolk Constabulary, is taking part in the ride from Greenwich to the Arc de Triomphe between September 6 and 9.

So far he has raised around £400 but needs to raise £450 just to be able to take part.

He said: "At first when we started cycling it was really hard going, but we are doing a 120-mile ride this weekend and did a 50-mile ride last weekend.

"I am quite surprised at how well it is all going, but I might regret saying that by the end."

During the four-day event, Mr Jackson will join 150 other riders who will be riding 75 miles a day and 65 miles on the last day to finish the race.

They do not have to worry about the hectic Parisian traffic however, as this is the only cycle race which it is officially stopped for.

The event has already raised more than £1.2million, with all money going toward the 2001 Poppy Appeal target of £20million.

The money is used to fund the Legion's work supporting ex-service people and their families and dependants.

Anyone who would like to sponsor Mr Jackson should call 07715 105489.

For information on joining the ride contact Matt Taylor on 0207 9737350.

WEBLINKS: www.britishlegion.org.uk