KIND-HEARTED cyclists have set off on a bike ride across Britain in a bid to raise funds to educate children about the dangers of drug abuse.

The riders started the sponsored cycle on Sunday and are due to complete the gruelling route on August 27, covering around 958 miles from Lands End to John O'Groats.

All sponsorship cash will go to the Life Education Centres Lancashire charity which operates mobile units, visiting schools to stimulate learning about healthy living and organising drug misuse prevention programmes for children.

John Mallalieu and Roger Stretton, from the Rotary Club of Great Harwood and Rishton, are taking part in the journey along with Richard Dugdale, of Ribbledale Club and Adrian Watts, of Rossendale club. John's wife Margaret will be riding in tandem with him for part of the journey.

The riders have timed their journey to pass through Great Harwood on August 20 on Charter Fair Day. Anyone who wants to accompany them on a part of their journey can do so at about 1.15pm from Towngate as far as Mitton, or further if they wish. A £5 contribution will be required and riders will received a T-shirt or sweatshirt commemorating the occasion.

Richard, 55, said: "We middle-aged supporters have undertaken to ride this marathon to raise funds for the education of future generations to raise the awareness of substance misuse and to enable them to make healthy choices for their future.

"These programmes are that good that they have been adopted by Lancashire Constabulary as part of their strategy to tackle substance misuse in the county." Life Education Centres' Lancashire charity currently has three £70,000 mobile units visiting schools at an annual cost of around £25,000.

Richard added: "At our age we should know better than tackle anything so arduous, but we all feel very strongly about the futures of our children. We are determined that they have the best chance to survive unscathed so that we minimise the impact on generations to come."

Anyone wishing to sponsor the team can phone Harry Dean on 01254 395272.