TWO novice bikers from Wyre Forest have set off on a daunting ride from Lands End to John O’Groats to support a Stourport charity.

Debbie Millington and her friend Becky Matthews began the 10-day challenge on Thursday (September 7) and are raising funds for the Leapgate Activity Centre that will helps young people with learning difficulties.

Neither of the pair are experienced riders, having passed their tests less than a year ago and they will be using B roads and camping en route.

The task is even more challenging for them as Stourport resident Debbie, who is 52, is on medication for a serious back injury while 42-year-old Becky, from Bewdley, is riding an old and temperamental 125cc machine.

Leapgate Activity Centre is a new charity being set up within a working farm. Funds are needed to provide the environment, staff and resources to enable people with learning difficulties to take part in activities such as animal care, catering, craft, horticulture, woodworking and Zumba.

It’s a charity close to Debbie’s heart as her cousin’s son Ben has learning difficulties.

She said: “I am doing this for Ben. A lot of my biker friends will have met Ben socially, or on Ben’s birthday ride out - still fondly remembered by our local biking community as just the most perfect ride out we've ever done.

“Ben loves motorbikes, speedway, is an avid Kidderminster Harriers and Manchester United fan. He is a member of the Special Olympics and takes part in athletics, gymnastics and basketball.

“Ben is 21 and typical of the many youngsters with varying learning difficulties who will use the Leapgate Centre.

“It will be a place which will enrich their learning experiences and a place they can simply hang out with their mates in a safe and secure environment.

“For these and so many other reasons, I will move heaven and hell to help achieve the fundraising required to set up and keep running the Leapgate Activity Centre.”

The pair have received support from Fields of Dunley, who have lent them a van to bring their bikes back from John O’Groats and sponsorship from Motorcycle Mart in Kidderminster.

People can support Debbie and Becky via their JustGiving page – which will also be updated with photos and video along the trip – at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/garbargerun2017.