A BURNLEY duo will cycle the length of Britain to raise money for charity as a tribute to a friend and a family member struck down with serious illnesses.

Darren Aggett and Michael Fenton will ride from Land's End to John O'Groats - around 1,000 miles - to raise cash for the Motor Neurone Disease Association and the Stroke Association.

A close friend of the pair contracted Motor Neurone Disease two years ago and now uses a wheelchair, while Darren's father Alan, 60, was a painter and decorator before he had a stroke in February of this year. He has now had to stop working.

The keen cyclists, who have wanted to complete the gruelling ride for some time, therefore decided to raise money for charity.

They will set out from the Cornwall town on September 12, stopping at campsites along the way, and hope to reach the most northern part of Britain's mainland by September 26.

Darren, 32, and Michael 43, have received sponsorship from several local businesses and are seeking further sponsors.

Darren, of Inchfield, Worsthorne, said: "We are both looking forward to it. I'm a little bit nervous because I'm not as experienced as Michael but I'm optimistic as well and Michael is really up for it.

"It will be hard work because we have a lot of equipment on our bikes but it is well worth it because it is for such a worthy cause."

Michael, of Little Tom's Lane, Burnley, said: "Cycling is something I love doing and I am a reasonably seasoned cyclist and camper.

"It will be a big thing for Darren because he isn't as experienced but he has been training really hard. I think we will both enjoy it and will have a good laugh along the way."

The pair hope to raise in excess of £2,000, which will be split half and half between the two charities.

The pair have also been supported by Burnley Cycle Centre, who will service their bikes before they set out.

They have set up a website and also intend to keep a journal of their adventure.

Anyone who wishes to sponsor the pair should contact them by e-mailing thebigride@tiscali.co.uk