AN 800 mile fundraising bike ride in memory of the founder of Beer s R&B Festival has been put on hold- but over �500 has already been raised for a bench in tribute to him. Bert Stone and Mike Barry have been planning the epic motorbike journey for month

AN 800 mile fundraising bike ride in memory of the founder of Beer's R&B Festival has been put on hold- but over �500 has already been raised for a bench in tribute to him.

Bert Stone and Mike Barry have been planning the epic motorbike journey for months and were planning to be back in time for a fundraising gig which will take place in the village tomorrow (Saturday).

However Bert's 1952 Francis Barnett bike has needed much work done to it and unfortunately was not ready in time for their chosen date.

Bert said: "We had problems getting bits for it and we had to make some parts so it just wasn't ready in time to leave on April 14.

"But hopefully we will be doing it in a week or twos time. It will give us much more time to prepare and we are concentrating on the gig now."

The bench, which cost around �550, has already been erected in Jubilee Gardens, overlooking the beach and a large sum of the money was donated by an anonymous benefactor.

But Bert and fellow organisers of the fundraising venture are hoping to raise even more money at the gig in the Mariners Hall, which will feature seven bands, including Jim's widow, Sheila, who will be performing on bass with 'Copoutz'.

Bert added: "We are going to keep the fund open and we would like to buy instruments for local schools.

"Jim was very much about passing on music, giving it to young people so it wasn't lost and that is the sort of thing he would have done."

The gig starts at 7pm and ends at 12.15am. Entry is free but donations are welcome.

Alternatively go online and visit www.steppinout.info/ for more information on the gig and to find out how to donate money.