A RYEDALE traffic sergeant is swapping his patrol car for two wheels to take part in the London to Paris Bike Ride.

Traffic Sergeant John Clayton, who is based at Malton, is taking part in the 300-mile ride to raise funds for the children’s charity Action Medical Research.

John decided to take on the challenge after turning 50 this year and experiencing at close hand the work of the charity after a friend’s grandchild died shortly after she was born.

He added: “I also know someone whose baby was born at 34 weeks and spent time in a special care baby unit. Fortunately she is now a healthy six-month-old.”

John has also played a practical role in supporting for youngsters locally.

He said: “I’ve worked with children for a long time, coaching Sheriff Hutton Junior Football Club and teaching in local schools.”

John added that Action Medical Research relies entirely on donations to fund a range of research projects that address serious childhood conditions and improve the quality of life for children with disabilities.

“The charity also supports research to reduce premature birth, prevent pregnancy complications which threaten babies’ lives and find the best way to care for sick and vulnerable babies,” he said.

About 700 riders will be taking part in the event, taking five different routes and completing the last stage in Paris with Tour de France competitors.

John has been training by taking part in a number of other rides as well as cycling to work from his home in Huntington.

“There is a cost of £600 to do the ride, which I have covered myself and I am aiming to raise about £2,000.

“I held a collection in Morrisons last week and collected £250 and would like to say a big thank you to all the people of Malton and Norton who donated.”

Anyone who would like to sponsor John can do so at www.action.org.uk/sponsor/johnclayton1