ARNOLD School pupils are getting on their bikes for the Macmillan Windmill Appeal which aims to raise £2.9 million for a special cancer unit at Blackpool Victoria Hospital.

A group of 30 pupils are aiming to cycle across Britain between them from North to South for the appeal, which is also supported by the Citizen.

As part of the Cycle 2000 ride one group of pupils will set off from John O' Groats and the other from Land's End on June 28, with the saddle-sore cyclists aiming to meet up in Blackpool a week later.

And to train for the event they are cycling from the North to South Pole - but this will be from the warmth of the classroom as they will ride the equivalent distance on two exercise bikes.

Cycle 2000 organiser Mike Hall said: "Pupils have been very enthusiastic to help the appeal in any way they can.

"The cycle ride will be a great way of raising money while also improving their fitness and their knowledge of geography."

These are just two events Arnold School pupils have organised to raise money for the appeal.

Other events for next year include a treasure hunt, a Stars In Their Eyes contest and a Blind Date event.

There will even be line dancing lessons for parents.

Victoria Hospital director of fundraising Ramesh Gandhi said: "I have great admiration for what these young people are doing to help their community.

"Cycling across the country is a great way to raise money and it is especially good they are taking time off during their holidays to do it and I wish them the very best of luck."

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