TRUSTEES from Dorothy House are preparing for a challenge of a lifetime as they get on their bikes for charity.

Paddy Stewart-Morgan, chairman of the trustees, and fellow trustee Annie Hastings will ride 255 miles in just four days to raise funds for the hospice.

The four-day cycling challenge will start at Dorothy House, Winsley, on August 20 and finishes in Ballsbridge, Dublin, on August 24.

The ride is open to anybody and organisers of the event are encouraging members of the public to play a part in raising funds for a good cause.

Katrina Sudbury, spokes-man for Dorothy House, said: "This four-day cycling challenge will not only test stamina and riding prowess but also raise money.

"Paddy has not ridden a bike for over 40 years and if he can do it then so can others. It is a big challenge but a very worthwhile one.

"We are very grateful to Alex Moulton Bicycles of Bradford, who loaned a bike to Paddy, and it would be great if some more people helped us.

"The more people who take part the better and we will be doing our best to make sure the event is a success."

Entrants will ride from Bath to Wales, crossing the old Severn Bridge, cycling 50 miles to Abergavenny.

The route will then see them ride through Llan-dovery before boarding a ferry to Rosslare, where they will head for the Wicklow Mountains before arriving at Ballsbridge.

They will be led by a team experienced in long distance bike riding and anybody who would like details on how to enter can contact Phillipa Watson or Matt Carter on (01225) 721480.