Les swaps the highway for the speedway
A thrill-seeking pensioner suffering from Parkinson's disease will be burning rubber on the speedway track to raise money for charity.
Les Taylor, who was diagnosed 12 months ago, will be speeding around the circuit in aid of Parkinson's UK.
The 68-year-old is doing the ride at Buxton Raceway in the Peak District on October 4 with his son Arthur, aged 24.
Biking enthusiast Mr Taylor said: "I was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease last September but I haven't let it stop me doing things.
"I recently decided to get my finger out and do something like this to raise money for charity.
"It'll be the first time I've ever ridden a speedway bike. It's bit different to the bikes I'm used to as the bike won't have any breaks or gears and it only reaches speeds of 60mph."
Mr Taylor, who lives in Cannock, has challenged himself to complete four laps of the oval speedway track in under three-and-a-half minutes. He has already managed to raise £160 for Parkinson's UK.
The forklift truck driver, who has two children, continued: "I've always been interested in bikes. I started riding them when I was 16.
"I try to live life as normal as possible. I have days when I get my tremors but when I have those days I just adjust myself.
"I'm really looking forward to getting on a speedway bike.
"I think this proves you're never too old to do what you want. I really need to do this. Who knows next year I may not be able to do it."
Mr Taylor, who normally rides a BMW 1100 RT, is a member of Chase Parkinson's Group which meets every month at the Aquarius Ballroom in Hednesford. He said members of the group had been very supportive in the lead up to his challenge.
To donate go to www.justgiving.com/les-speedway
