FOSTER fathers who have looked after almost 50 children between them are saddling up for a charity bike ride to improve the lives needy youngsters.

The group, made up of Brian Foulger, Gary Chatterje, Adrian Wakefield and David Pennock, are raising funds for Middlesbrough Foster Carers Association.

Together with their wives, the four have welcomed a total of nearly 50 children in their homes on a short and long term basis for four years.

On Monday, September 15, they will set off on an epic 150 mile coast to coast cycle ride starting at Whitehaven in Cumbria and ending back home on Teesside on Friday, September 19.

The final leg will see them take in the five local authority areas of Middlesbrough, Darlington, Hartlepool, Stockton and Redcar and Cleveland, to raise awareness of fostering in the Tees Valley.

Mr Fougler said the aim of the challenge was to raise as much money as possible for Middlesbrough Foster Carers Association, a charity organisation run for and by carers and approved by Middlesbrough Council.

“The organisation fund and organise events for the children and young people and the families they live with such as a Christmas party, camping trips, day trips and barbecues, to name but a few.

“These events are arranged to help the children and young people experience the family life many of us may take for granted, hopefully enhancing and improving their outlook and future.”

To sponsor the team visit www.middlesbroughfostercarers.co.uk and click on the ‘donate’ link or call 01642-201962.