A GROUP of colleagues from a Weymouth bank have pledged to cycle more than 60 miles in aid of a children’s charity.

Around 10 people who work at the Weymouth branch of Santander are taking part in the charity challenge on October 20 and will be joined by up to 40 colleagues from other Dorset branches.

Organiser Aaron White, a personal banking advisor, said the group had picked CLIC Sargent as their charity because it is one of Weymouth and Portland Mayor Ray Banham’s chosen good causes for the year.

Mr White said: “It is a great cause and when we found out it was one of the mayoral charities it just seemed appropriate, as we want to help local causes.

“It’s really important for us to get involved in our community and help out as best we can. This is going to be just one of many events.”

The 68-mile route begins in Weymouth and goes to West Bay via Yeovil and Crewkerne before taking the coast road back to Weymouth.

Mr White said: “The original route we looked at was 120 miles but a lot of people were saying that’s too far, so we changed it a bit.

“We are going to drive the route before the cycle, to check it’s ok and safe, so it may change a little yet.

“But we wanted to do something that was a challenge for everyone. I think if you’re going to do a sponsored event, it has to be a decent distance.”

Among the people taking part are several people who have not ridden bikes since their childhood.

Mr White said: “We are appealing for people and businesses to get in touch if they can lend us bikes, or protective gear, and in return we can mention them on our sponsorship clothing and forms.”

Anyone who can help is asked to call 05511 430167.

Sponsorship forms and buckets will be appearing in and around the Weymouth branch of the bank on St Thomas Street as the event approaches.

Mr White added: “Our target is £3,000 but really it’s just about raising as much money as we can for a great charity.”