Alex Waddington prepares for his Spin and Bin challenge

A cyclist plans to hit the saddle for 16-hours in a challenge to clean up the Peak District.

Alex Waddington will tackle more than 100 miles of hilly terrain on the day of the summer solstice.

On his way, he will use a folding litter picker to clean-up some of the national park’s grot-spots. Armed also with plastic gloves and a stash of plastic bags, he hopes to begin his challenge as dawn breaks at 4.39am and end it at sunset, 9.40pm on Saturday.

He will be supported by a small team collecting his bagged rubbish as he pedals south across the park after starting with the gruelling Holme Moss climb over Black Hill. He hopes to raise more than £2,500 for the Peak District National Park Foundation, of which he is a trustee.

Stockport resident Mr Waddington, a regular visitor to the Peak District, said: “The longest day is always one I try to mark by doing something special. Last year I set off at 3.40am and ran up Kinder to watch the sun rise.

“This year, my aim is to cycle across the national park, collecting as much litter as possible from some of the worst grot-spots. Each bag I fill will be collected by a small support team for disposal.

“I wanted to do something positive for the Peak District, to make a difference and to raise money for the foundation, which works to preserve and protect the national park for everyone, forever – for our kids, our grandkids, our friends.

“It would be great if there was no need for a challenge like this, and everyone who visits the national park takes their litter home with them. But this is a chance for me to inspire others to do their bit, whether that’s taking rubbish home, organising a socially distanced litter pick or sponsoring me.

“I’m hugely grateful to all my sponsors so far, but it’s going to need a big effort to hit my target – your support will keep me going when my legs are failing and the hills are steep and long.”

He will be fuelled on his ride by Clif Bars, which supports the work of the UK’s national parks.

Donations to the appeal can be made via the Peak District website.