OLYMPIC hopes will be riding on a Wistaston cyclist after he was presented with a specially constructed racing bike last week.

Robert Hughes, who will compete in the World Special Olympics next year, was handed the £1,200 cycle by Mayor Ray Stafford to mark the fruition of four-months fund-raising by a local charity.

Bobbies on Bikes, with the help of the White Lion pub in Warmingham Road, have held a host of money-spinning events for the appeal since its launch in May, including a sponsored indoor bike ride, a treasure hunt and tombolas.

Thirteen-year-old Robert, who has a learning disability, is the latest sporting talent to be developed at the Cheshire Academy of Integrated Sports in Macon Way, Crewe.

Last year he gained two golds on a borrowed cycle at the British Special Olympics in Portsmouth, but he will be looking to compete against stronger opposition in America next July.

Police Constable Graham Piggott, chairman of the fund, said: "A lot of hard work goes into the fund-raising by our committee," he said.

"And it is always rewarding when we are able to provide equipment and support to improve the quality of life to children and babies."

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