A BURY Council water tanker driver is quenching his thirst for adventure with the "charity cycle ride of a lifetime".

Tony Walker is embarking on an epic 480-kilometre journey along the Great Wall of China, with all the funds he raises going to Mencap.

The 44-year-old was inspired to undertake the marathon fund-raising challenge after getting to know his girlfriend Shannon Oakes's eight-year-old daughter, Nicola, who has severe learning difficulties.

Tony, of Little Lever, decided to do all he could for the charity after being moved by Nicola's plight.

So, after reading an article about Mencap's plans for the ride last year, he decided to have a go. "I have always done a bit of cycling but nothing as much as this," said Tony. "It is going to be exciting."

In order to take part, Tony had to raise at least £2,500 in sponsorship.

"I think I have more or less exhausted every sponsor in Little Lever," he joked.

The journey, which will take Tony and 108 fellow cyclists five days to complete, has meant extra fitness sessions, including training each evening and weekend.

As soon a he comes home from work, Tony gets on his bike and cycles up to 25 miles at a time.

"They say it is going to be quite humid out there, 20 or 30 degrees," he added.

In between training he has found time to help organise a 24-hour pool and darts marathon at the Canary pub in Leigh, with the £500 proceeds also going to Mencap.

Despite being envious that she can't go to China as well, Tony says Shannon is "made up" about the his efforts.

"I can't wait. It is going to be great," he said.