Fliers to get on their bikes for Legion cash

A team from a Shropshire airbase is taking part in a gruelling bike ride to raise vital funds for the Royal British Legion.

Five members of the Defence Helicopter Flying School at RAF Shawbury will visit 20 World War II airfields and historic sites around the country.

The riders, who are with the No 705 Naval Air Squadron, are in training for the challenge, which will see them set off on June 3 and cover 1,000 miles in 10 days.

They will begin the journey from Royal Navy Air Station Culdrose in Cornwall.

Squadron Leader Neil Hope, RAF Shawbury spokesman, said: "The event is designed to give the team an insight into the history of the airfields they will be visiting while raising awareness of the Fleet Air Arm and the Royal British Legion.

"All of the team members are qualified helicopter instructors at the Defence Helicopter Flying School.

"As such they are responsible for the training of all military helicopter pilots for all three services. Many of them have previously served in war zones across the globe."

The Royal British Legion provides help and welfare to the serving and ex-service community and their families.

It also campaigns on a range of issues affecting service people, is the custodian of remembrance, runs the annual Poppy Appeal, and is one of the UK's largest membership organisations.

Anyone wishing to sponsor the team can do so at www.justgiving. com/705-Naval-Air-Squadron-Charity-Cycle-Ride-2-13-June-2011

Alternatively, people can follow their challenge at http://web.me.com/char lie77/705NAS/Welcome.html