A WORCESTER man who suffered a mini stroke just six months ago is preparing to saddle up for charity.

Father-of-two Stuart Crowther, who suffered a mini stroke in February, is taking on the Bristol Bike Ride on Sunday, September 27 in aid of the Stroke Association.

The 54-year-old managing director and former rugby player was preparing to go on holiday with his wife when he began to feel pins and needles on the right hand side of his tongue and his hand.

Luckily he recognised the symptoms and called 999 straight away.

Mr Crowther said: “I was very lucky that my symptoms had gone within 12 hours.

“While I was on the stroke ward in Worcestershire Royal Hospital I saw first-hand how devastating the effects of stroke can be and knew I wanted to do something to help raise funds.”

A mini stroke, also known as a transient ischaemic attack, is caused by a temporary disruption in blood flow to the brain. Although the symptoms are the same as a regular stroke, they last for a shorter time and the effects usually last no longer than 24 hours.

Mr Crowther, who is taking on the 60-mile challenge along with 23 friends and family members, said he currently cycles about 80 miles a week but this is the first time he had ever taken part in a ride for charity.

“There’s a real mix of cyclists taking part in our team, from beginners to enthusiasts and experts,” he said.

“We’ve even got cyclists joining us from Paris and Milan.

“We’re aiming to raise around £2,000 for the Stroke Association, primarily for research to help those affected by stroke get the support they need.”

Regional fundraiser at the Stroke Association Claire Haines thanked Mr Crowther and his team for their generous effort.

“With around 152,000 strokes a year in the UK – that’s around one every three and a half minutes - it is vital that we have people who can raise funds for people affected by stroke.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Stuart and his team for taking on this challenge.

“The money will go a long way in helping to support people who are living with the effects of stroke, as well as their families and carers.”

To sponsor Mr Crowther visit justgiving.com/Stuart-Crowther1.