A KNUTSFORD charity worker has faced a cross country ‘ride of embarrassment’ to raise money for British Red Cross week.

John Morris, Senior Service Manager of Health and Social Care at British Red Cross embarked on his bank holiday journey of just under 100 miles on a tiny 49cc Puch Maxi Moped.

He rode the miniature bike, which struggles to reach speeds over 30mph, from the Nottingham offices to his base in Knutsford, raising just short of £900 in the process.

The route saw John and his mini motor cross the Pennines through Ripley, Matlock Bath, Buxton and eventually past Stockport and into Knutsford.

John said: “I’m just about walking normally again now,” he said. “I’m not one who likes to be embarrassed so it was a huge challenge for me. I wouldn’t have embarked on such a challenge without a worthwhile reason for doing so.”

John came up with the idea after being set the challenge to raise money along with other members of the charity’s senior management.

He said: “When it came to Red Cross Week, I was considering what I could do that would be a little different.

“Staff are always trying to get me to do a “Great British Bake Off” as I apparently look like Paul Hollywood, so I decided on a diversion strategy and a bike ride!”

“Matlock Bath was embarrassing, because all of the regular bikers were there. I stopped to say hi, explained that it wasn’t my usual mode of transport and then carried on my way.

“Then there was Buxton- the bike didn’t really like hills so this was a bit of a challenge.”

John received wide support from family, friends and co-workers, who all donated to help him reach his final total.

His main aim was to raise awareness of the charity and what they do in the local community.

He said: “Because of my job, I can see first-hand the difference our service can make to people locally.

“Most people are very aware of the work the British red Cross is involved in overseas, but not so evident are the things we do locally, like support at home, A&E discharge service, mobility aids crisis training and so much more.

“British Red Cross are an amazing organisation with incredible staff and volunteers, who really will go that extra mile to help.

“The very least I can do, is go that extra mile on a moped!”