A TOWN mayor is to tackle a tough 78-mile bike ride in aid of charity.

Mayor of Bishop Auckland , Councillor Charlie Kay hopes to complete the Etape Pennines in less than six hours on Sunday, October 7.

Coun Kay chose the ambitious challenge after an administration error prevented him from tackling a cycle ride between Paris and London next month.

It involves more than 5,400ft of ascent on the hilly course that starts and finishes at Ushaw College, Durham.

"I think this challenge is harder than my original one, " he said. "There is no doubt this is going to be the hardest thing I have ever done but I am determined to do it and I will finish it.

"I have not done as much training as I would like but hopefully the weather will be good in September so I can get out more.

"The gradients of the climbs are going to be at least 11 per cent. It is going to be tough.

"I want people to think if I can do it then anything is possible.

"I would hope to raise £1,000 for the British Heart Foundation but I really appreciate any sponsorship."

Anyone willing to sponsor Coun Kay can hand donations in to the mayor's charity account at the Four Clocks Centre, Newgate Street, Bishop Auckland.