A MAN will swap a conventional bicycle for a vintage penny-farthing when he takes on a 15 mile charity bike race.

Andrew Watson will be getting on his bike for the fourth annual Ride for Helen in aid of the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity.

The event which is set to be one of the biggest cycling events in Essex in 2017 sees competitors take on a series of routes of varying lengths from Hatfield Peverel on May 7.

Competitors can choose from six miles, 15 miles, 35 miles or 65 miles taking in the surrounding countryside.

Andrew, who works for ride sponsor Essex Audi’s Stansted branch, signed up after hearing about the event from a college.

He said: “I first heard about Ride for Helen back in 2014 when my colleague, Darren Thompson, announced he would be putting together a team for the event.

“We all know somebody that’s been affected by cancer, so I was happy to be able to show my support for the Helen Rollason Cancer Charity.

“This year, I’ve decided to try something completely new and attempt the 15 mile route on my recently purchased penny farthing.”

He is now urging other people to sign up for the event which is being supported by charity patron Sally Gunnell and Gogglebox’s George Gilbey.

“I’d 100% recommend anyone considering taking part in Ride for Helen to do it – it’s such great fun,” he said.

“Now that the ride has a six-mile route, it’s ideal for families with children to get involved.

“The atmosphere on the day is wonderful, from start to finish, and it’s a brilliant way of getting out in the beautiful Essex countryside. Plus the best part is that you can raise money for such a wonderful cause.”

Registration costs £15 for adults and £8 for children and families can also pay £15 for two adults for the six-mile route and get two children entries free.

To register, visit www.rideforhelen.co.uk or call 01245 380719.