The Mindlink organisation is an international network of people who have personally experienced mental distress and advises what national and local MIND associations should do.

Allan, who has competed in the tricycle event in 2003, 2004 and 2007, suffers from a rare neurological problem called Tardive Dyskinesia, also known as Dystonia, which causes painful muscular spasms in the neck and shoulders and is the third most common movement disorder.

The disability, not fully diagnosed until 1992, was a side effect from tranquillisers Allan was prescribed for a nervous breakdown which forced him to give up his job as a teacher.

But since developing Dystonia, Allan has discovered a love for cycling, which he says gives him something to focus on and achieve highly in.

Sporting his distinctive red spotted 'King of the Mountains' top, Allan also chooses to go green as part of The Green Agenda for Mental Health, which advocates MIND groups to get involved in green exercise.

And on 15th June, Allan will compete for a fourth time in the World Tricycle Championship in Belgium to help promote Chad's Charity for 2008 and its Mindlink service.

"I am hoping to get spotted and raise awareness in a positive way during the championships which I am in training for," said Allan, who has been involved with Central Notts MIND since 1988.

After taking the honours in the Disabled World Tricycle Championships in 2004, Allan has set himself a high standard to keep up with when he takes to the track later this month.

Said Allan: "The organisers have pointed out that the races are about participation as well as competition and that there is a great deal of media interest in the event so I expect a lot of people will be there."

And one person who will be supporting Allan in his latest mission is Central Notts MIND general manager, Girish Ravat, who told Chad the charity is proud of Allan for helping to raise awareness of mental health difficulties.

"Everyone at Central Notts MIND will be rooting for Allan to do well in the championships and we all hope he has great fun," said Girish.

• Anyone interested in becoming a Central Notts MIND volunteer or trustee or who would like to organise a charity event or make a donation to Central Notts MIND should contact Girish Ravat on Mansfield 658044.