NORMANDY is where seven cyclists from the Marlborough area will start their 150-mile trip to raise money for Help for Heroes.

Dene Zaleski, 51, Jon Chidsey, 52, Alex Dawson, 48, Roddy Millar, 50, Andy Kerr, 49, Mark Jones, 56, and Paul Newman, 63, began their French adventure on Sunday (June 4) in a week long trip.

The trip is timed to coincide with the June 6, D-Day anniversary date and the group will be visiting many of the historic Second World War sites and military cemeteries en route to pay their respects.

The intrepid seven are travelling without any support, so will be totally self sufficient and carrying everything they need with them on their bikes.

"It should be a great trip with a really great bunch of blokes in an effort to raise some money for a wonderful charity," said Mr Millar.

"I go to Normandy every year as I like to pay my respects and my mates were keen on going there too. It should be a leisurely trip, but also quite emotional too. It is important to remember the contribution millions made to defend this country. To think that teenagers went and fought in the war is not a nice thought. If we can raise more than £1,000 that will be great. Hopefully the weather will be good but the weather there can be quite English."

The team will return home from their travels on Saturday and if anyone wishes to make a donation there is a form and collection point in the Roebuck Inn, London Road, Marlborough.