A ROVING Reverend wants parishioners to spend a penny and support a bike ride across Britain to raise cash for toilets.

Droitwich's Rev Eric Petrie is desperate to build loos at St Michael's Church, in Salwarpe and Martin Hussingtree's St Michael and All Angels Church.

He hopes a 1,000 mile cycle from Lands End to John O'Groats will inspire residents to dig deep.

On Monday, the West Mercia Constabulary chaplain was given a police send off by the deputy chief constable Alan Bridge and it's hoped his efforts will generate £2,500 for the £120,000 project. So far, community events have raised £15,000.

The married 46-year-old told the Advertiser: "People who are old enough may remember a Fat Man on a Bicycle. Well, this is a bit different - it's a fat vicar on a pushbike."

People travel long distances to visit Mr Petrie's churches for occasions, such as weddings, baptisms and funerals, and he claims the lack of conveniences force guests to ask neighbours for use of their lavatory or travel into Droitwich and find a public toilet. "By building facilities, we can open for community activities such as concerts, young people's activities and village clubs," he explained.

The trip will take three weeks and a support team is accompanying the vicar. Their vehicle is provided by Droitwich Motors and includes Dr Ian Clarke, an environmentalist, and the Revd Christine Medway and Chris Medway. Donations can be sent to The Rectory, Salwarpe, WR9 0AH. Alternatively call 01905 778757 or email eric@petrierev.freeserve.co.uk