Former Wales rugby international and Newport businessman Hal Luscombe is getting on his bike again, this time to ride to Paris in aid of charity.

Hal will be taking part in the second Shelter Cymru Ride to the Rugby Challenge during the Six Nations next year.

Earlier this year Hal, who runs Luscombe Lettings, in Bridge Street, Newport was one of 35 riders to undertake the challenge of cycling from the Millennium Stadium to the Aviva Stadium in Dublin to coincide with the Six Nations international between Ireland and Wales, raising money for Shelter Cymru. In very difficult conditions all the riders made it to Dublin for kick off.

Among the riders joining Hal, and team captain Colin Charvis, another former Wales rugby international, on the 2015 ride will be Matthew Cunnell and Roger Hawkins, from Newport-based Anglo-Celtic Financial Consultants.

Matthew Cunnell, who has undertaken all sorts of cycle rides and runs in aid of a number of charities, said: "Following the sudden death of a childhood friend I started by running the Mick Morris memorial half marathon in 2009. Since then I've done the Cardiff half marathon twice, the Newport half marathon twice and the Sheffield half marathon along with various 10k' races. I've also completed a number of cycle rides for charity. Roger has also been very busy running and cycling. So this is the latest in a series of fundraising events for us.

"Our targets are each to raise in excess of £2,000 for Shelter Cymru, such a is a worthy cause helping homeless and ordinary people who suddenly have a life changing event that renders them homeless. Having followed Colin Charvis up a 20 per cent climb during the recent Castles and Cathedrals Sportif, I have no doubt he will be an inspiring team captain."

Andrew Jones, of Shelter Cymru, said: “Once again we have a great mix of cycling experience, ages and personalities coming along. Shelter Cymru, like so many charities, is faced with the challenge of raising money to continue to provide help to an increasing number of people. Finding and keeping a home is an increasing problem for many across Wales and events like this play a vital role in us being to continue our services. We are very grateful to all the riders for their commitment and support.”

Anyone interested in joining the challenge can telephone Andrew Jones on 01792 469400.