Heswall police officers cycle from London to Paris to raise money for The Montse Benitez Foundation – formed by the wife of former LFC manager Rafa Benitez

Oct 5 2011 by Linda Foo Guest, Heswall News

HESWALL bobbies have got on their bikes to cycle from London to Paris to raise money for the Montse Benitez Foundation.

Five officers set off on Monday to cycle more than 290 miles in four days to raise cash for charities.

Sergeant Graham Parker, PC Mark Joynson, PC Derek Murphy, PC Neil Kennedy and PC Mark Broderick are taking part in the bike challenge.

They are accompanied by their support driver, Special Sergeant Steve Johnston.

The cyclists were due to arrive at the Eiffel Tower today.

The Montse Benitez Foundation was formed by the wife of former Liverpool FC manager Rafa Benitez.

It supports charities in Merseyside for the young to the elderly, including The Lily Centre, Barnston Riding for the Disabled, Snowdrop Appeal, Olly Appeal, Holidays for Children and Hoylake Cottage Hospital.

Sgt Parker, who has organised the charity bike ride, said: “Heswall police station celebrates its centenary this year and to commemorate the occasion we wanted to take part in a charity event to raise money for the communities that we serve.

“The Montse Benitez Foundation, which launched this week, aims to support and help communities in Wirral and Merseyside and the bike ride is an ideal opportunity for us to help raise money for an excellent cause.”

Inspector Steve Hall added: “As a force, we work within our communities to address issues and priorities to make Merseyside a safer place for people to live, work and enjoy sport, hobbies and past times.

“In August we were faced with violent disorder across Merseyside and it was tremendous for us to receive so many positive comments and the support of our communities for the work that we do.

“This is therefore a great opportunity for us to give something back to the community by supporting charities throughout Merseyside.”

Any readers who would like to donate and help raise money for the Montse Benitez Foundation should visit Rafa Benitez’s website http://rafabenitez.com or call Sgt Parker on 0151-777 2358.