PARALYMPIAN Ian Marsden is taking time out of his Tokyo 2021 training schedule to back a national fundraising drive for NHS hospitals, including Leighton Hospital in Crewe.

The Staffordshire paracanoeist has joined a growing band of people looking to raise money and express their gratitude to hospital workers by taking part in the Great British Rainbow Active Series over the coming months.

The not-for-profit Series invites people of all ages and abilities to undertake a cycle ride, run or walk challenge for local hospitals each month and Ian, 49, who suffers from a rare motor neurone condition, is hand-cycling to raise money for the Royal Stoke University Hospital where he receives treatment.

Ian, who joins the British Paralympic team heading to Japan in August, was a champion powerlifter until he suffered a spinal injury in 1992. His condition was discovered while being treated.

He said: "Over the years I have received the greatest of care at the Royal Stoke and the Series offers people like me a chance to raise a bit of money and say thanks. It was tough being told 'you will never walk again' but exercise got me through - in my case it was hand-cycling.

"I would encourage everyone to get behind the Series and do what it takes to get them moving and helping the NHS."

Leading the Series are local couple Michelle Vorel-Adams and Phil Fortun who staged a cycling marathon during the first national lockdown and raised £5,000 for the Royal Stoke University Hospital where Michelle was treated for a life-threatening DVT.

Michelle, appointed European Cycling Directeur for her efforts to promote cycling and wellbeing, said: "The Series is a fantastic opportunity for local people and companies to get behind a fundraiser that promotes physical activity while saying a big 'thank you' to local hospitals and those brave souls on the front-line at the height of the pandemic.

"We already have people from all over the country registered and undertaking a personal challenge at their own pace. Each have their own back stories about why they want to support their local hospital and many are recovered Covid patients.

"We're especially thrilled to have a celebrated sportsman like Ian taking part. He epitomises true British spirit and shows what can be achieved through sheer grit and determination."

Michelle added: "We have lived through a dreadful chapter in British history when the health of the nation has been in grave danger and we continue to live with the threat of coronavirus.

"The pandemic continues to shine a spotlight on how crucial it is to integrate physical activity into daily lives for wellbeing and a robust immune system. The bottom line is exercise supports health and if we can raise money for local NHS hospitals at the same time, then it's a double whammy."

The fundraising campaign asks participants to set a fitness challenge and raise money for the NHS hospital of their choice.

A wide range of high-profile sponsors are backing the Series including Crewe's Mornflake Mighty Oats.

To register go to www.rainbowactiveseries.com