Two former Oakbank students are doing a sponsored tandem ride to York and back, to raise money to help their old school's bid to keep its sporting status.

Caroline Debono, 30, and her sister Sue Marriot, 29, both from Oakworth, are planning to start the first leg of the 100 mile round trip on Saturday, May 6, returning the next day.

The sisters are staying at the Orchard Court Hotel in York after owner Louise Dobbs responded to an appeal for overnight accommodation for the charitable duo.

Caroline says they have decided on the challenge as they both feel strongly about the school's bid to raise £30,000 by August in order to keep its sporting status. As an extra incentive, Sue is engaged to Oakbank fitness suite manager and cross country coach Will Smith.

Caroline says: "Will told Sue the school needed money, so we decided to do a ride." She adds the cycle ride is becoming a yearly event after last years ride for the NSPCC.

Her employers, chartered accountants Shepherd Baker, have kick-started the fundraising with a £100 pledge.

Anyone interested in sponsoring Caroline and Sue should call 01535 600968.

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