TWO East Lancashire charity workers are to undertake a sponsored trek with a difference along the Leeds Liverpool Canal.

Richard Day, chairman of Accrington Shopmobility, and John Greenop, a volunteer at the outlet, will complete the 127-mile journey in special off-road mobility scooters.

They will be joined by Richard's four-legged friend Tyler who ride in style on his owner's lap.

The two men hope to raise a minimum of £4,500 from the event, which will take four days to complete, in order to meet rent payments for the Whalley Road shop.

Earlier this year Lakesway, part of Shiloh ActiveCare, pulled out of an agreement to provide funding to Accrington Shopmobility.

It had agreed in February 2002 to pay the rent and utility bills for the building for three years but solicitors for both parties are now looking into the terminated agreement.

Shopmobility, which provides scooters and wheelchairs to disabled shoppers for a small donation, is now selling mobility aids to help foot the bills for a trial period.

Richard said: "We have to ensure we raise money for next year's rent and wanted to do something that hasn't been attempted before.

"The only possible worry is punctures, but the off-road scooters have special tyres which should prevent that from happening."

The exact dates for the journey have yet to be arranged but it will be sometime in August or September.

Richard, who lives in Lowergate Road, Huncoat, and John, of Grane Road, Haslingden, will set off from Liverpool and cover 28 miles on the first day, 22 on the second and split the remaining 77 over the last two days.

The men will travel home in a bus overnight while the scooters, which can travel at a maximum speed of 8mph, are left with lock-keepers.

Anyone wishing to support the fundraising trip should call 01254 875856.