A TEAM of determined South Lakes cyclists are embarking on an epic cross-country challenge to raise vital funds for the area's hospice.

As part of efforts to raise money for St Mary's Hospice in Ulverston, 12 members of South Lakes Social Cyclists will take on a gruelling coast to coast route from Walney to Whitby, on the east coast in North Yorkshire.

The journey, also known as the W2W, will take the riders 152 miles across the breadth of the country over two days.

The challenge

One of the cyclists, Mark Barnes, said: "I first though of a challenging bike ride back in November.

"As so many of our cycling friends were keen to do it, I suggested we do it for charity.

"We all have our own choice of charity and we thought it best to just have one."

Smashing the target

The group has already smashed its fundraising target of £2,500 for the challenge this summer, with donations already reaching the £3,000 mark.

Local garages in the Furness area have also got on board with the trip, with businesses from Barrow, Ulverston, Dalton among those contributing £950 towards accommodation for the cyclists on their journey.

What the mission can do

According to Sarah Simpson, marketing co-ordinator for St Mary's Hospice, the amount of money raised for the challenge so far could provide 361 meals on the hospice's inpatient unit.

The money would also be able to provide around 158 hours patient care or enable 34 patients to attend day care.

Mrs Simpson said: "We're absolutely delighted that the SLSC has taken up this challenge on behalf of St Mary's.

"There is a brilliant sense of community with this event as many local businesses got involved to help make this possible and that we're keen to thank." 

The team will be tackling the challenge on July 23 and 24.

To find out how you can donate to their mission, visit www.nwemail.co.uk 

CLICK HERE: JustGiving page for cyclist Paul Battersby  

CLICK HERE:  JustGiving page for cyclist Nick Little

CLICK HERE:  JustGiving page for cyclist Mark Barnes