TWO Keighley men are bringing a new meaning to the phrase pedal power and hope to raise a pile of cash for Manorlands hospice, Oxenhope.

Ben Pennington, 24, and Steven Varey, 22, both of Long Lee, are planning to cycle the length of France on a four-week sponsored ride in the summer.

Ben, a machinery installer, says they were looking for an unusual holiday and decided to tie up a holiday with some charity work.

Steven, a care assistant at Braithwaite School, says: "We just fancied a different holiday really and thought we may as well do it for a local charity."

Ben adds: "We're actually getting a lift to Dover and starting in Calais and going all the way down to Beziers."

Their 800-mile ride will take them through many of France's cities, including Paris, Lyons, Montpellier, Auxerre and though the Rhone valley.

David Gott, of Manorlands hospice, says he is extremely grateful to Ben and Steven for their sponsored ride.

He says: "They asked us and we're only too willing for them to do this for us."

Robin Nolan, owner of Robin Nolan Cycles, has pledged to provide the cyclists with any spares that they need to help them on their way.

The two fundraisers have until July 24 to get ready for their mammoth ride, although Steven is quick to point out: "We're not going to be breaking any records."

And once the ride is over and they are in Beziers, are they cycling back?

"No, we'll be getting the train back, definitely," says Steven.

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