Intrepid firefighter David Taylor is planning to take a break from battling blazes to help people in danger of a different kind.

Mr Taylor, of Heywood Way, Heybridge, near Maldon, is hoping to get on his bike and cycle around Brazil to raise cash to help people with leprosy.

He and colleague Paul Chipperfield work at Leigh fire station in Southend but are hoping to jet out to Brazil in September after answering a call for help from the charity Lepra.

It is looking for 20 firefighters to take up the challenge of cycling around Brazil for ten days.

But Mr Taylor will not be able to go unless he manages to raise £1,500 to help cure people with leprosy and a further £1,000 towards his travelling expenses and guides during the expedition.

He is now appealing to individuals and businesses in the area to help him get on his way.

"I've been in the service for about two years and this is the first thing that has come up and I really wanted to do something to help," said Mr Taylor.

If you want to sponsor Mr Taylor, he can be contacted on 01621 857283.

Kitted out -- fireman David Taylor is ready for his bike ride to Brazil in aid of leprosy charity Lepra.

Picture: STEVE BAINBRIDGE

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