A MOTORCYCLIST is bidding to break a world record by travelling 1,000 miles in under 24 hours on his Harley Davidson motorbike.

Personal guidance adviser Garry Phillips, who works for TWL Training Ltd, Richmond Terrace, Blackburn, will be joining Royal British Legion riders to raise money for this year’s Poppy Appeal.

The riders will be attempting a world group record by having 200 people on the 1,000-mile ride all at the same time on June 20.

But it’s unlikely to be a comfortable ride as the bike is ‘hard-tailed’ – meaning there is no rear suspension.

In fact, it’s going to be so painful Garry will be taking painkillers before he sets off to ensure his limbs don’t seize up from the vibration of the engine on his 1999 Harley Davidson Sportster.

Garry, 55, from Griffin area of the town, said: “The furthest I’ve ever travelled is 700 miles and that was hard, but this is going to be real pain barrier stuff. Because there’s no suspension, it starts hurting after just one and a half hours.

“I reckon it will take me around 17 hours to complete, starting at 8am and finishing at 1am the following day.

“However, it will be all worth it because the Poppy Appeal is such a worthy cause and I want to raise as much money as possible. The debt of honour we owe to people who have served and fallen in conflict is massive and all donations will be gratefully received.”

Garry’s trek starts at famous bikers’ venue Squires Café Bar at Sherburn-in-Elmet, West Yorkshire.

From there, he will join the M6 and head south through Cheshire, down to Devon and Cornwall before going across to Dover. From Kent, Garry will be heading up to east London and then join the A1 back to Sherburn-in-Elmet.

Christine Thompson, centre manager for TWL Training, said: “Garry is extremely popular with colleagues and learners. We all wish him well and hope he isn’t too sore for work on the Monday!”

To make a donation, contact Garry on 01254 264347 or email garry.phillips@twluk.com