CYCLISTS from Darlington Rotary Club are taking part in their sixth annual charity bike ride across the country.

The group set off from Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, today, and will tackle a challenging 152 miles in three days.

On their route they will travel through Kendal, Tan Hill, Reeth, Bedale and Northallerton before arriving back in Darlington.

Over six years, the group has cycled 1,166 miles and raised over £46,000. The money raised has gone towards supporting Darlington Rotary Local and International Charities and Projects, which is redistributed to worthy causes.

Darlington Borough Council leader Cllr Heather Scott, a fellow rotarian, wished the cyclists luck as they set off and said: "I wish them the best of luck.”

The past charities supported by Darlington Rotary Club include St Teresa’s Hospice, Butterwick Children’s Hospice, Darlington Samaritans, Darlington Town Mission, Darlington Family Help, First Stop, Darlington Food Bank, Darlington Association for Refugees, Humankind Darlington Young carers, Salvation army, Sustrans North East, The Listening Post, Olivier Mae Foundation, Aquabox, Mercy Ships, End Polio Now, Safe Water, Zero Club Foot, Vinguijini, Project (Kenya), Kerala Flood Relief, and Shelterbox.

The Rotary Club's sponsors on the ride include car dealer SG Petch and bike shop Wheelbase.

To support the ride, donate via https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/DarlingtonRotaryRide2019.