A MAN who was told he would never walk again following a motorbike accident is preparing to cycle 100 miles for a Cockermouth group.

Mike Fox suffered major leg and arm trauma in 1984, two years after joining the RAF.

"I was told that I would never walk again or be able to move or feel my arm, both right leg and arm were to be amputated," he said.

"I refused to accept this and was fortunately transferred to RAF Hospital Ely where a different approach was initiated.

"I recovered and continued to serve, interspersed with surgery, for 20 more years until 2005.

"After leaving the RAF I continued to have essential surgery until 2010."

Mr Fox, who teaches maths at UTC, Lillyhall, moved to Caldbeck in 2012 and took up fell walking. He also joined Cockermouth RAF Association.

"I completed the 214 Wainwrights in June 2018, using a leg that I was told I would never walk on again," he said.

"In August 2014 I took up road cycling with the purpose of strengthening my knee so I could walk the fells more easily, I have however discovered a love of cycling, particularly in Cumbria, recently clocking up my 10,000th mile."

He will be taking part in a 100-mile challenge in Rutland on June 15, raising funds for

Cockermouth RAFA.

The RAF Association is dedicated to supporting serving and former RAF personnel and their families.

"Whether it's an injured airman fighting to get back onto his feet, a young daughter missing her parent away on overseas operations or a WWII veteran needing a shoulder to lean on, we are here to help," said Mr Fox.

He has been training hard and is looking forward to the big day.

"I've been doing lots of practice, it should be quite an accomplishment," said Mr Fox, who has lost 10 stone in the past 10 years as a result of all his activities.

To sponsor him, go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/michael-fox21