A FOOTBALL fan is planning a bike ride to raise money for his beloved club – despite his previous charity trips ending in disaster.

Andy Parks will cycle from Grimsby to Lincoln to watch the Quakers play the Imps on April 9.

Mr Parks, 20, hopes to raise more than £500 to pay for shares in Darlington FC 1883 Ltd – the community company set up to buy the football club and lift it out of administration.

However, although the cycle ride is only 40 miles, he is mindful that previous challenges have enjoyed limited success.

In 2009, when the club was last in administration, Mr Park and best friend Keirran Lamb attempted to walk 120 miles from Darlington to Lincoln in just over two days.

But after about 90 miles, Mr Lamb began complaining of chest pains before collapsing of exhaustion.

The following year, Mr Park set off to walk to Macclesfield ahead of another Quakers game to raise money for a wheelchair for a family member.

After five hours, his torch ran out of batteries. As he was crossing the road to change them, he tripped on a kerb, smashed his head open and had to been taken to hospital.

Despite both trips ending prematurely, Mr Park said he still raised several thousands pounds for the causes.

“Cycling is easier than walking and, fingers crossed, I will have no problems like I have had before,” he said.

“I’m sure I can finish it this time.”

The supporter, who now lives in Grimsby, will be joined on the trip by two other Darlington fans, his friend, Jake Craggs, and businessman Andrew Foulds.

Mr Foulds has two false knees and will complete the ride on a 50- year-old bike.

However, he said he was an experienced cyclist and is confident this trip will be a success.

“I’m going along to make sure Andy gets over the finish line this time,” said Mr Foulds.

To sponsor Mr Foulds, visit Bar 66, at The Northern Echo Arena, today before the game, from 1pm to 2pm, where Mr Foulds will be training on an exercise bike.

Or visit blundelltosincil.co.uk To sponsor Mr Park, visit sponsorandy.org.uk 􀁧 Shares in Darlington FC 1883 will be on sale at the West Stand today, from noon. Investors should take along two forms of identity, one of which must be photo ID