March man hops on 100-year-old bicycle to thank hospital

Colin Bedford is taking on a 100-mile challenge

An 87-year-old man is doing a 100-mile cycling and walking challenge involving a 100-year-old bicycle, to raise money for a hospital that saved his sight.

Colin Bedford, from March in Cambridgeshire, is set to receive his 100th eye injection later this month at Hinchingbrooke Hospital in Huntingdon.

He damaged his retina 11 years ago while playing badminton and has been receiving regular treatment ever since.

"The staff at Hinchingbrooke Hospital have been wonderful," said Mr Bedford.

His challenge, which is due to finish at the end of the month, will see him ride a "1914 BSA Huntingdon Cycle Core" bike, he said.

"It comes complete with a rifle strapped to the handlebars and a grenade in the back ammunition pouch - both decommissioned, of course," said Mr Bedford.

The vintage bicycle has a decomissioned rifle attached to the front

He added: "I damaged my eye whilst playing badminton eleven years ago and the staff at Hinchingbrooke Hospital have been wonderful, they are doing a fantastic job. I have an injection every month in my right eye, which I could describe as like a pin cushion."

Mr Bedford still runs a badminton class in his hometown and is believed to be one of the oldest registered coaches in the UK.

"I held a sponsored badminton tournament a few years back and raised £3,000 for the hospital - I'd like to raise a bit more this time," he said.

"So many people have to go along to the clinics and we all get such brilliant treatment."