A FUND-RAISER with a back problem hopes to complete a 300-mile bike ride for charity.

Gillian Wilshaw, aged 50, who works for Beat the Cold, is due to cycle from London to Paris in May for the cause.

The services and operations manager, from Biddulph, has been diagnosed with slippage of her spine.

But she took up cycling in September.

She has already won the backing of five businesses in the heating and engineering trade, and raised £1,800 in sponsorship.

Gillian, who turned 50 last month, hopes her four-day challenge will raise £2,000.

She said: "I want to show that even at 50, it isn't time to sit down and put your slippers on."

"Training is tiring, but it is a matter of building it up."

Hanley-based Beat the Cold gives energy efficiency advice to vulnerable people.

To sponsor Gillian, call 0800 389 2258.