A 69-YEAR-OLD cyclist is set to pedal along the gruelling Meirionnydd coastline to raise money for Wales Air Ambulance.

The 50km cycle ride is helping to raise life-saving donations to fund emergency helicopter missions across Wales.

Brian Clenton, from Llwyngwril, will be cycling in a loop from Aberdyfi to Arthog and back in September, aiming to raise £500 for Wales Air Ambulance.

The pensioner decided to take on the Cambrian Coast Sportive to raise donations for the Welsh helicopter charity, after learning about the charity’s operations during a course about how to use the defibrillator which was recently installed in his local area.

Brian said: “Recently, a defibrillator was installed at Y Ganolfan and an invitation was given to take up the opportunity to learn how to use it.

“During the training, we were informed about the Golden Hour where treatment within this time improves the patient’s survival and early recovery.

“Being in quite a remote area, we were informed that the Wales Air Ambulance was crucial for many people. Having the ability to be airborne in around three minutes and reach anywhere in Wales in 20 minutes is vital.

“On researching this organisation, I found out that it costs £6.5 million per year to keep it running.

“As a 69-year-old motorist and cyclist, the need for this service may one day crop up, so I decided to do the Cambrian Coast Sportive to help raise funds and awareness of this much-needed service.”

Brian will set off on his fund­raising ride from Aberdyfi Wharf on 16 September, travelling through Tonfanau, Llwyngwril and Arthog before returning via Tywyn to Aberdyfi­.See this week's north editions for the full story, in shops and online on Thursday