A MAN is saddling up to keep the memory of his late father alive.

Neil Baker is taking part in the Great Dorset Cycle Challenge, which raises money for Weldmar Hospicecare, a charity that supported his late father after he was diagnosed with Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer.

Godfrey Baker was a well-known builder in Bridport.

Neil said: "My dad Godfrey Baker was really the best man you could meet and full of life. He was a well-known Bridport builder and has left his mark on many buildings in and around the Bridport area, helping lots of local people.

"He had retired for only five years, then he was diagnosed with Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma. Within weeks this knocked a very active man down quickly and he was unable to walk up to see his garden and his collection of beloved fuchsias."

Thanks to funding from Weldmar, Godfrey did get out once a week, being taken by bus to attend a weekly session at Greenfields and meeting people in a similar situation.

Neil said: "He had a great time there, and all the time being looked after by the Weldmar nurses.

"Another highlight for my dad was the story-telling lady as my dad called her. He thought it was a good idea to leave his memories in a book so people can read his life stories. He had many stories to tell, he was a good raconteur."

Neil, who has lived in Bridport all his life, has worked at Groves Nurseries and Garden Centre for more than 20 years, cycling to and from work everyday, which has helped him to prepare for the 120km route tomorrow.

This year is the first that Weldmar has organised the challenge, which is split into three distances.

Director of fundraising and marketing, Matt Smith, said: "We are excited to be running a brand new event this year branded The Great Dorset Cycle Challenge which takes place in the stunning Dorset countryside.

"All of the money raised from the challenge will enable us to provide outstanding end of life care when patients need us most."

To donate to Neil, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/neil-baker20

To find out more about the challenge, visit weld-hospice.org.uk/events/great-dorset-cycle-challenge