AN inspirational ex-serviceman gets on his bike to raise money for an important cause.

Eric Ayling, 84, from Corsham, has completed a bike ride for the Help for Heroes charity.

The army, navy and RAF joined him for the 60 hours, around eight hours a day, for the seven-day challenge.

Mr Ayling said: "The response has been overwhelming. I like cycling and include it in my gym routine so I thought why don't I put it to some use.

"I heard about the charity about 15 years ago and go involved then. But I've been cycling for about six years.

"I can't get into trouble if I'm on this so keeps me out of it. I've always been fit. I don't feel 84 it's just a number.

"It's all about Help For Heroes so that they can help others get back to normal life. So every penny that goes in helps them.

"In July I did a 30 hours practice ride to see how my training was going and it went well so we decided to go ahead with the challenge.

He cycled and total of over 300 miles and raised a total of...

"I want to do it to help military personnel so people who have fought in Iraq and Afghanistan to support them and get them back into life again. With the injuries and the mental side of it, they need all the help they can get.

"The government don't help much which is why I’m doing it. I’m an ex-serviceman so I understand what it’s about.

"I think Help for Heroes is one of the best charities going. It affects families when someone has to go away for a year.

"If they come home and have lost ability to do something they have to rebuild there life which is why it’s important there is help.

Anna Court who promoted the fundraiser said: "He is such an inspiration. Just by walking past and seeing what he is achieving, it's something to look up to.

"I put him forward for a Pride of Britain award because I think he is amazing and deserves recognition for all his efforts with fundraising especially because of his age as well. He got shortlisted and came second for being a fundraiser of the year out of the thousands of applicants, it is incredible."

Dan Webb health centre manager said: "Whatever we can do to support Eric we're happy to do so. He tells the best stories. He is speaking to groups and inspired lots of people. There has been an unbelievable response."