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Setting off from Stratford Racecourse, the 50-mile, or 80km, route will see Cllr Brown face 3,000 feet of hill climbs on his journey through the Cotswold hills before heading back to the racecourse where the challenge concludes.

Such is the generosity of those who have already donated, the target, initially set at £300, has been increased twice, leaving the final goal at £1,000.

Anybody who would like to contribute can do so by visiting Cllr Brown’s donation page.

Cllr Brown, who represents Exhall ward, said:

“I'm absolutely taken back by level of support I've received since taking on this bike challenge to raise money for the Mayor's Appeal in aid of Zoë's Place Baby Hospice.

“Make no mistake, a 50-mile bike ride that includes around 3,000 feet of hill climbs in the Cotswolds is a real challenge for a 63-year-old with a dodgy knee.

“It's a bit like running a marathon and climbing Snowdon rolled into one.”

“I'm one of the councillors where Zoë's Place is based, so the Mayor’s Appeal this year has a special resonance for me, and I'm honoured to be able to do my bit to help raise money for this great cause.

“Having visited the hospice, I'm humbled by the great work Zoë's Place does as well as the fantastic support I've received to date.

“We started off hoping to raise £300 but we've now broken the £800 barrier and are aiming for £1,000.”

Mayor of Nuneaton and Bedworth, Cllr Martin Walsh, said:

“Zoë’s Place is a tremendous charity that supports families and young children, including babies, that are experiencing life-threating or life-limiting illnesses.

“It costs £3,000 a day to run the Coventry site and so the funding raised by Cllr Brown so far will be a big contribution towards that.

“Borough residents have always been so generous in supporting each mayor’s Civic Appeal and all money donated is gratefully received.”

Cllr Kris Wilson, Leader of Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council, said:

“Whilst I know that Cllr Brown is an enthusiastic cyclist, I think he has taken on his biggest challenge yet.

“It is all in aid of a fantastic cause that really makes a difference to the families who rely on the work that Zoë’s Place does.

“So, I would encourage residents to dig deep in aid of a fantastic charity.”

A spokesperson for Zoë's Place said:

"Zoë's Place is deeply grateful for the incredible support of Cllr Damon Brown, who will be participating in the Cotswolds Cycling Event to support the Mayor's Civic Appeal.

"The funds raised by the councillor will be vital in ensuring that we can continue providing essential care for the children and families.

"Thank you, Cllr Brown, for your generosity and dedication to our cause."