THE Grinning Idiots MCC raised funds for an ex-paratrooper who is taking part in a charity trek.

The motorcycle and biker group, which meet at the Abercarn Hotel, held a bucket collection at their motorcycle show, raising £500.

The funds were presented to emergency medical technician Tom Rose, from Bristol Road Ambulance Station in Birmingham, who will be trekking through Peru’s mountain range in September to raise money for Help for Heroes.

Mr Rose, 31, will be undertaking a trek of the sacred Inca lost city of Machu Picchu with a team from the charity.

The gruelling 42-kilometre six-day five-night trek will see him climb to a height of 5,000 metres.

The ex-paratrooper said: “I’m looking to raise as much money as possible for Help for Heroes, as it’s close to my heart.

“I’ve got friends in the military that have benefited from the charity and I therefore knowhowimportant their support is.”

Mr Rose hopes to raise £3,500 before he leaves.

Motorcycle Club treasurer Mike Duggan commutes to Birmingham from his home in Pontypool to work as part of the Rapid Response Team, and this is where he heard about Mr Roses’ challenge and decided the Motorcycle Club could help.

To donate, visit bmycharity.com/climbamountain