A TIMPERLEY resident is striding out to help a charity close to his heart.

Youth worker Gordon Carlisle, of Fairfield Road, is tackling a 190-mile trek from St Bees in the Lake District to Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire, to raise funds for Crohn’s and Colitis UK - the same charity that Manchester United’s Darren Fletcher is backing after his battle with ulcerative colitis.

Like the United midfielder, 64-year-old Gordon also suffered an inflammatory bowel condition, Crohn’s disease, and is determined to repay the charity that helped him cope with it.

Gordon had a major operation in September which he has almost fully recovered from, although not the Crohn’s.

Father-of -three Gordon, who is married to Maureen, said: “During this time I received advice and support from this charity, who are involved in research as well as supporting people like me with inflammatory bowel diseases.

“All in all, a humbling experience.”

He sets off on his 12-day walk on Friday, April 4. Various people will join him in stages, including a group of youngsters from an adventure club he helps to run based in Wythenshawe Park.

To sponsor Gordon go to www.justgiving.com/gordoncarlisle.