Martin Azzopardi will cycle 252 kilometres across Sicily to raise funds for Caritas Malta, the organisation said.

Azzopardi's challenge will begin in Messina on 7 June and is scheduled to end the following day in Pozzallo.

Azzopardi completed a 170km bike ride in Sicily last year, also in aid of Caritas Malta, from Pozzallo to Ortigia. He had previously managed to raise €7,445 during this challenge last July.

He has decided to take up an even greater challenge on behalf of the charitable organisation thanks to the support he received from his family, friends, his team, and from Caritas itself, the organisation said.

Azzopardi commented that this Foundation is very close to his heart and that he has decided to give back to it since he meets several people and families in who require Caritas Malta's assistance. He added that he knows many such people who have returned to society as "whole people with full dignity, as if they were reborn."

Azzopardi aims to continue cherishing the memory of Monsignor Victor Grech - former long-time director of the organisation and one of the "founding fathers" of Caritas Europa. He said that Mons. Grech had greatly encouraged him during his first cycling endeavour and to continue aiding those who need support the most prior to his passing this February.

Azzopardi has been preparing for this challenge since he completed last year's marathon. He has since been training very seriously and in very dedicated fashion, he said.

Azzopardi appealed for more people who need Caritas' support to keep themselves updated with what the organisation has to offer.

He called on people to donate to the organisation during his challenge so that Caritas may continue evolving its services for the benefit of the Maltese society.

Azzopardi thanked those supporting him, especially his wife Sandra, his colleagues, friends, the team that will accompany him, his sponsors, as well as the Director of Caritas Malta, Anthony Gatt.

This fundraising endeavour is part of a campaign that Caritas Malta is carrying out where individuals, groups, or companies may approach the organisation with an activity they plan on organising with funds being directed in aid of the Foundation.

One can contribute, donate funds, and support Azzopardi via Revolut to the phone number 99656510.