Evesham man motorcycling across the country for Wonky Pets Rescue

Nick Payne will ride from John O’Groats to Land’s End to raise money for Wonky Pets Rescue, from whom he adopted his dog, Vodka.

The 49-year-old will take on the near 1,000-mile journey aboard a three-wheeled moped from the 1970s which he has nicknamed Charlie.

“I am expecting it to be tricky to be fair,” he said.

“I have been busy preparing the bike as best I can as it will be doing more miles than most of these have done in their entire lifetime, they really are that awful.

“This machine is interesting in that it has next to no suspension, tiny wheels, and a reputation for being a handful to ride – should all add to the fun I’m sure!”

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Nick Payne will take on the 983 mile journey in June (Image: Nick Payne)

Mr Payne said the furthest he has previously ridden the bike, believed to be the oldest BSA Ariel 3 in the UK, was to Hinckley and back, a round trip of around 100 miles.

However, the cross-country challenge he has set himself will involve riding at least 150 miles every day for over a week straight.

Mr Payne moved to Evesham in 2005, having previously lived in Eastbourne.

He regularly helps out at the Wonky Pet Rescue, in Swadlincote, Derbyshire.

A few years ago, he shaved his head for the charity and raised £750, which went toward operations.

Ahead of his latest challenge, he has so far raised £857.

Mr Payne said: “I'm hoping for the sake of the rescue that people will feel generous and pop some pennies in the pot.

“Every year, Wonky Pets Rescue helps hundreds of animals find loving homes or foster after they are discarded or abandoned, many through no fault of their own.

“At Wonky Pets putting to sleep is not an option nor has it ever been, but the downside to this is even something as humble as a kitten can soon rack up vets bills running into hundreds of pounds.

“With lockdown coming to an end this has also led to a sudden influx of animals as people suddenly realise they can’t care for an animal and work.”

Visit Mr Payne's fundraising page here

Mr Payne will set off on June 3 and is hoping to have completed the ride and be back home by June 11.

His friend Paul Bottomley will be by his side in a van, just in case things don’t go to plan.

“The expected distance according to the mighty Google is 983 miles, but obviously there is the whole getting to John O'Groats first," Mr Payne said.

“I’m only asking for sponsorship on the total miles covered before either the bike gives up the ghost or my butt does, he is a good machine, but this is a lot of miles in a short time.”