AN inspiring and heart-warming Blackpool man has retired from years of charity fund-raising on a very high point indeed.

Dave Burns completed his Year 2000 Challenge Appeal this weekend by riding Blackpool Pleasure Beach's Big One -- alongside a very brave Harry Bentley who was celebrating his 84th birthday.

The appeal is to raise money for seven local charities.

The bright and bubbly 60-year-old from St Helier's Road, Blackpool, was injured during an explosion at a steel works seven years ago, leaving him wheelchair bound and in continual pain.

However, he wasn't deterred from his charity work and continued to help the needy and less fortunate -- despite his physical hindrance.

Dave and his team began the appeal in February last year with a daring abseil and concluded with his ride on The Big One as he explained: "My challenge has been a rollercoaster of events, from a 30-mile tandem ride from Blackpool to Manchester followed by a hair-raising ride on South Pier's Skycoaster and the ultimate final challenge on The Big One, which was horrific.

"I have enjoyed it all but can't deny I was getting tired. We haven't collected all the money in yet but I am sure it is going to be a very generous amount. I don't even want to speculate as I want it to be a surprise for the charities."

"I would also like to thank everyone at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, all my team and everyone who has been involved in the appeal for all their help and kindness."

A positive attitude to life and living has undoubtedly helped Dave come to terms with his disability and he wishes to instill this in others as he explained: "I used to be able-bodied and it was soul-destroying when I realised I was to be in a wheel chair for the rest of my life. But sheer determination and a lot of support from family and friends got me through.

"I want everyone to take heart from my example and realise that life doesn't grind to a halt. It keeps going and so must you."

The Blackpool charities who are to benefit from the appeal are: The Bears Multi-Disabled Team at Stanley Park, The Polar Bears Swimming Team at St George's Pool on Cherry Tree Road, St John's Ambulance Brigade, Arts of the Fylde on Waterloo Road, Dr Barnado's, The Blind Society on Squires Gate Lane and the Mayors Charities.

If anyone would like to make a donation to the appeal they can do so at any Lloyds TSB branch in Blackpool. There are branches on Whitegate Drive, Birley Street and Corporation Street.