EARLY birds can watch an unusual charity stunt on Saturday - if they are out and about at 1am. Paul Tucker, 59, is pushing his single-seat pedal powered vessel out to sea from Folkestone harbour as he launches his fundraising attempt to cross the Channel - and return - in support of The Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal.

The man from Mersea Island has worked as the Legion's county field officer for Essex for five years and has done several madcap fundraising projects. His early start is planned with tides and weather predictions in mind.

He said: "I've previously cycled the Legion's annual September Pedal to Paris ride and I always felt that I cheated a bit when we travelled from Dover to France on a ferry. Now I'm filling in the gap and I hope to pedal the 18 miles from Folkestone to Calais in less than six hours - and to return, if I've got the energy.

His attempt will be assessed by the Channel Crossing Association on behalf of the Guinness Book of Records. To sponsor his effort phone 01245 348 818 or donate on-line in the events section of www.britishlegion.org.uk