INTREPID cyclist Daniel Cavender has already raised more than £2,000 in sponsorship money for the Great Western Hospital.

The 39-year-old wants to raise £9,000 for the Osprey Ward for outpatients with serious conditions, and will fly to Rome to begin his sponsored cycle ride back to the GWH on May 12.

On Thursday a special May day fun fair was held to help raise the funds.

Daniel said: “It was fun. The main reason for the day was it was the last day I was on site at the GWH before I set off on my cycle challenge.

“There was a raffle and representatives from Swindon Travel Choices and Mitchell bikes were both there. They have been brilliant sponsors and I am really grateful fro their support. There was also a smoothie-making bike, which people could jump on and make their own smoothie.”

Daniel hopes that he can raise £9,000 in total for the cause, especially since it will be one of the toughest challenges of his life.

He said: “I’m just a normal man, I am not a fitness fanatic or a professional or anything. I do a bit of cycling now and then but this will probably be the hardest thing I will ever do.”

l To sponsor Daniel or to find out more about his challenge, visit www.gwhcharity challenge.org.