A POLICEMAN from West Devon is joining six local firefighters to cycle coast to coast across America to raise money for the emergency services aid fund set up following the terrorist attacks in the US.

The cyclists will ride from San Diego, on the west coast to Florida in the east, covering some 3,200 miles.

PC Dave Pickles said the group plan to ride 125 miles a day, for three and a half weeks. He said the cyclists have been in training for several months to prepare for the gruelling ride.

They have already raised sponsorship at home, and hope to collect more as they travel across America. PC Pickles said they also hope to meet many of their colleagues from the American emergency services along the route.

The cross-country cycle ride had been organised before the terrorist attack on the World Trade Centre and the Pentagon on September 11, but following the attack, the group decided to donate all funds raised to victims of the terror in America.

The money will go to the Devon Fire and Rescue Services USA appeal fund which has been set up to help emergency workers and their dependents affected by the terrorist action.

People can make donations c/o PC Pickles at their local police or fire station, cheques should be made out to the DFRS USA appeal fund.