A GRANDFATHER is to embark on a gruelling bike challenge to raise funds for disabled children.

Raymond Little, of Heathcote Avenue, Hatfield, will cycle more than 300 miles during the epic mission in aid of the Romania Downs Syndrome Project.

Starting in My Tho, Vietnam, on February 13, Mr Little will ride 30 to 55 miles a day in temperatures of up to 40C until he finishes in Siem Reap, Cambodia, on February 20.

The 61-year-old, hoping to raise �4,000 for the charity, which radically changes the lives of children with the disability, told the WHT: “The children live in one of the poorest regions in Romania, in a society where those with a disability are not integrated into everyday life.

“But for the past three years the charity has raised funds that have radically changed these children’s lives.

“These kids now have a daily routine – they have friends and the opportunity to learn through group activities and individual learning aids.”

This is not the first challenge the grandad-of-two and dad-of-three has taken on.

In June 2008, Mr Little completed a 10-day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu in Peru to raise money for deprived children in developing countries.

The former Welwyn Hatfield district councillor raised �7,000 and hopes his forthcoming challenge to be nearly as successful.

Mr Little, who bought the Eight Bells pub in Park Street, Old Hatfield, with one of his sons and wife, added: “I’m very much looking forward to the challenge.

“All the money I raise [for the charity] will go directly towards practical help such as teaching aids, training for the parents and resources such as craft materials.

“Join me in supporting these disadvantaged children.

“Please sponsor me and be part of my challenge.”

So far Mr Little has raised �2,105.

To help him reach his target sponsor him at www.justgiving.com/Raymond-Little0.