IT WILL be lovely jubbly as the owner of a popular Chickerell pub embarks on a 700 mile cycle ride with two locals to raise money for good causes - inspired by a TV sitcom.

Liam Coles of the Lugger Inn will be accompanied by pub regulars Roger Boyd and Joe Mcsherry as they set off from the pub for the mammoth ride in April.

They head to Poole for the ferry then go through France, Belgium and Holland before returning and finishing back at the pub.

The trio took the inspiration for this challenge from TV comedy Only Fools and Horses' 1985 Christmas special ‘To Hull and Back’, which sees the characters hire a boat for a diamond smuggling venture, and let Uncle Albert guide them to Amsterdam, before they all end up safely back at the Nag’s Head.

Dorset Echo: Liam, Roger and Joe enjoying a pint and food at the Lugger after trainingLiam, Roger and Joe enjoying a pint and food at the Lugger after training (Image: Lugger and Back)The group are funding their own travels and plan to raise at least £2,500 for three local charities and groups including Weldmar Hospicecare, the Life and Soul Community Trust and Fight Back Mental Health.

Liam said: “Our aim is to cycle 700 miles over seven days as we are trying to support local charities at the moment.”

Each member chose a charity close to their hearts to raise money for.

Liam’s was The Life and Soul Community Trust.

He said: “It’s a new trust that has been set up in the last year to provide support to those within the local community, whether monetary or otherwise, in order to bring happiness to others, promote wellbeing and nurture a strong community spirit.”

Roger chose Fight Back Mental Health, which is based in Weymouth and was set up to highlight the power of sport as an outlet for those struggling with mental health issues.

Joe chose Weldmar Hospicecare Trust which provides end of life care for people living in Dorset who need support.

Liam joked: "We have found a unique way to deal with their mini mid-life crises' taking inspiration from the Only Fools and Horses 1985 Christmas special. 

"We will be keeping everyone posted on our progress with posts and videos on the dedicated Facebook page, Lugger and Back. Just like the Trotters at Christmas ‘85, this European adventure won’t necessarily be 'plain sailing' all the way."

Dorset Echo: Liam, Roger and Joe edited into an Only Fools and Horses styleLiam, Roger and Joe edited into an Only Fools and Horses style (Image: Lugger and Back)At the time of writing, the fundraiser has reached £627 of a £2,500 target.

If you would like to donate, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/luggerandback.