A HEART attack survivor will take on a 73-mile sponsored bike ride to raise money for a couple injured in the Tunisia terror attack.

Paul Briscoe, of Burghley Close, Great Notley, said he wanted to raise money for Kirsty Murray, 26, and Radley Ruszkiewicz, 29, even though he has never met them.

The 52-year-old said: “I had a heart attack two years ago and cycling has become a bit of a passion. I was going to do the ride anyway, but this just seems a like bit of an opportunity to raise some money.

“I was watching the coverage of Tunisia on the TV but it wasn’t until I read the article in the Braintree and Witham Times that I realised people from Braintree were involved.

"I just thought this is an ideal opportunity to raise a few quid.

“They are trying to raise £10,000. I don’t think I will get near that but if I can raise a decent amount it will be a start.”

The taxi driver will cycle the 73 mile route of the Wiggle Colchester 100-mile bike ride on August 16. He added:

“I’m doing the shorter route because a lot of the course is in Suffolk where it’s quite hilly terrain. I love cycling but I don’t want another heart attack.”

The couple were injured in a grenade and gun attack on June 26 at the Imperial Marhaba hotel in the resort of Sousse.

Kirsty was shot five times in the arms and legs and is now in hospital in the UK.

Mr Briscoe will donate sponsorship money to a fund set up by Kirsty's family at gofundme.com/z6p738. 

The Boars Head, in Braintree High Street, will also hold a charity music night for Kirsty and Radley on August 30.

Landlord Stuart Buckley said the event was a “good cause” and would feature popular local bands throughout the day