A Lancashire Telegraph worker is supporting British service people by undertaking a gruelling coast to coast cycle ride.

Graham Sowerbutts, 51, who works in IT at Newspaper House, Blackburn, is planning to ride 210 miles over mountainous terrain from St Bees in Cumbria to Robin Hood’s Bay in North Yorkshire in aid of the Help for Heroes charity.

He is aiming to complete the route in four days on his mountain bike, keeping close to the route made famous by Blackburn-born walking guide writer Alfred Wainwright.

There is a specially written guide for cyclists which maps out what has become known as the ‘wheelwright route’.

Graham, who lives in Chorley, will pass through three national parks and is packing 11 Ordnance Survey maps to navigate his way.

He has been training by cycling to and from work along the Leeds /Liverpool canal, a round trip of more than 20 miles a day.

He said: “There has never been a better time to support members of our armed forces.

“I‘m sure the ride will be tough but hopefully enjoyable.”

To support graham go to http://www.justgiving.com/gsowerbutts.