A GROUP of friends will be gearing up for a 50 mile cycle through some of the most picturesque areas the Vale has to offer later this month, all in aid of a charity close to their hearts.

The four friends will set off along the Vale of Evesham Blossom Trail on Sunday, April 19, and cover 50 miles in support of Macmillan Cancer Support at Evesham Community Hospital.

Mark Allard, from Offenham, is one of the group, who are all workmates from the military base at Ashchurch in Tewkesbury, that will be taking on the challenge, alongside Paul Withers, Martin Trotter and Lyndon Evans.

"The money we raise will go to the hospital's cancer care unit," said 54-year-old Mr Allard.

"I cycled the route last year and I thought I will do it again this year and I'll raise some money for Macmillan.

"I chose the charity because I have had relatives that went there and I thought it would be nice to do something and give something back.

"When I spoke to the other guys they said why don't we do the 50 miles this time rather than the 27 miles.

"It will certainly be different and a good way to support a local charity."

The team were hoping to arrange about £100 each to contribute to the work done by Macmillan Cancer Support at Evesham Community Hospital.

To support their cause visit justgiving.com/Paul-Withers8.