A SPONSORED bike ride has been organised by the Mayor of Fylde to raise money for the debilitating illness which nearly killed him.

The 40-mile ride is the first of a number of events in which Mayor Paul Hayhurst aims to raise money for the Guillan-Barre Support Group.

The Mayor pledged to use his position to raise awareness and funds for the condition in which anti-bodies eat away at the nerve linings while trying to fight infection.

He found himself close to death in intensive care after only suffering symptoms one week earlier, describing the discomfort of being paralysed and unable to communicate as a "living hell."

The event will take place on July 9, starting and finishing at St Annes Town Hall and passing through several towns and villages in the Fylde.

Entrance to the ride costs £3 and further information and a sponsorship pack may be obtained from the Mayor's secretary, Anne McVittie at St Annes town hall, on (01253) 721222.

Pictured is the Mayor being helped on his way by attendant Peter Biggs.