A former ride operator at Oakwood Theme Park is to embark on an epic seven-hour charity ride-athon on board the white-knuckle rollercoaster Speed this weekend (Saturday, September 24).

Craig Asparassa, from Pembroke Dock, is undertaking the gruelling challenge to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Although ride-athons are not uncommon, the extreme forces which the Speed ride exerts on your body means this will be both a major mental and physical challenge for Craig; particularly as he plans to ride it non-stop for the full duration.

He is hoping to raise more than £500 for the cancer charity as a way to show his gratitude for their help with members of his own family.

“Macmillan Cancer Support has done a lot for my family and many other families around the UK,” said Craig.

“Speed is a very fast coaster and takes its toll on the body - most people can only withstand five to 10 rides in a row before getting off due to dizziness or nausea.

“I’m determined to spend the whole seven hours on the coaster for this amazing cause,” he added.

Travelling at speeds of close to 100 kph and pulling up to 4 Gs, Speed features everything from a beyond vertical drop at 97 degrees and -1 G camel hump to a 110 degree flying turn and a vertical loop

Not forgetting the stomach-turning 360 degree barrel roll and the mind-numbing horizontal loop known as the helix.

Speed was the first ride in the UK to contain a beyond vertical drop.

Oakwood Theme Park’s Phil Verbinnen said: “Craig is taking on a major challenge with this charity ride-athon but he has got the full support of the entire team here.

“It is a wonderful cause and we are confident he will exceed his fundraising total and successfully complete his epic endurance ride.

“With its beyond-vertical plunge, barrel roll, vertical loop and flying turns Speed is not for the faint-hearted!” he added.

Anyone who would like to donate to support Craig’s challenge can do so by visiting www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Craig-Asparassa .