THE former deputy chief of the defence staff is preparing to join fellow SSAFA supporters on this year's Ride the Plain cycle event.

Lt Gen Sir Andrew Gregory, who became chief executive of the military charity after three decades in the army, will mount his trusty steed on October 16 at the Royal School of Artillery, Larkhill.

He'll be among the charity's employees and volunteers, along with members of the public and corporate teams.

The Royal Engineers are the first regiment to field a team and are hoping for competition from other regiments and local groups

Riders will be tackling a 30, 60 or 100-mile route around the Wiltshire countryside and its landmarks, taking in Larkhill camp before heading out onto the Salisbury Plain Training Area and its tank tracks.

Last year the event was heralded by riders as great fun, and it raised £12,000 for the charity.

This year is expected to be bigger and better, with funds raised going towards two of the charity's schemes - a specialist adoption service for serving families, and short breaks, that give service families who have a child with additional needs a chance to take holiday together in a safe and adapted environment.

Registration fees are £15, £25 and £30 respectively and the fundraising target is £250.

It is fully supported with refreshments and ride guides, making it the perfect fundraising opportunity for families and friends.

SSAFA, which is the oldest national tri-service military charity, helps service people and their families, including those who did national service.

As well as providing support for those in debt, suffering post-traumatic stress, disability or homelessness, it works with other charities to make sure people get the help they need.

It runs a free and confidential Forcesline online, mentoring for those returning to civilian life, tailored support for Gurkha veterans and their families in the UK and help for those who find themselves caught up in the criminal justice system.

It also helps military communities based abroad in places like Gibraltar, Cyprus and Brunei.

To find out more about SSAFA and its work visit ssafa.org.uk