KWIK-Fit apprentice Simon Taylor needs a quick fix to his financial affairs - he has to raise £1,000 by February 14!

But it isn't for himself or to pay off debts, the 19-year-old cyclist needs the money as sponsorship for a 250-mile bike ride across the desert in Israel.

Simon of Woodville Road in Penwortham, is taking part in the National Children's Home's Big Bike Ride in aid of its Action For Children campaign.

He will set off from Jerusalem on March 15 with about 120 others, and together they will pedal their way down to the Bay of Eilat on the Red Sea.

The former pupil of Hutton Grammar admits he isn't an avid cyclist, but for the next few weeks he said he's in serious training.

"I cycle to work everyday, but I'll be out round the fells for the next month or two. I'm also going to the gym, doing a lot of fitness training, working out and running."

Simon's employers Kwik-Fit in North Road, Preston, are sponsoring several apprentices from the North West. They are given time off work to make the trip and the company gives them half of whatever they collect.

Simon must raise £1,000 in order to qualify to take part. So far he's been pledged £400 but he's spending all his free time fund-raising like mad before the deadline, February 14.

Last year 79 riders took part and raised £185,000. This year they are hoping to more than double it. Anyone wishing to sponsor Simon can call him at Kwik-Fit on 821228.

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