A WORCESTERSHIRE policeman will be clocking up the miles and raising cash for charity when he jets off to Mexico for an ambitious bike challenge.

Adrian Todd, a detective inspector with West Mercia Constabulary, will cycle 450km around Mexico's ancient Mayan Empire in aid of Acorns Children's Hospice Trust.

The 39-year-old will be joined by up to 21 other challengers, including former Olympic gold medal-winning cyclist Chris Boardman.

"There are a number of things I'd like to achieve before I'm 40 and when my parents, who are very much involved in fund-raising for Acorns, told me about this event, I thought I just had to go for it," he said.

The route for Bike Mexico stretches from Merida, the centre of Mayan culture, across the Yucatan Peninsula to Puerto Aventuras.

"I'm a keen cyclist and I've completed the London to Brighton bike ride and a few local bike-a-thons, so hopefully these will stand me in good stead," added Mr Todd, from Droitwich.

He hopes to notch up more than £5,000 for the charity in sponsorship money.

"At first, the thought of raising the minimum sponsorship of £2,500 was a bit daunting, but people have been so generous and the support of my friends and family has been fantastic."

He revealed the highlight of the trip would be swimming with dolphins and diving.

"Everyone I've met wants to support Acorns in some way and the incentive of helping to raise money for the new hospice just keeps you going," he added.

"I've also had a lot of support from the Acorns' Friends Group in Stourport and Kidderminster."

Places are still available for Bike Mexico or another Acorns' cycle challenge event - the Three Counties Bike Ride around Lake Constance in Europe.

For more information visit the charity's website on www.acorns.org.uk or call 01905 767676.