A GROUP of students will cycle across Europe to raise money for charity.

Kristian Putman, computing and digital forensics student at Teesside University, will cycle from France to Spain with friends to raise money for two charities, Help for Heroes and Special Needs Activities with Parents Support (Snaps).

Mr Putman, 20, is an experienced long distance cyclist and last year travelled to Italy solo. Now he has decided to organise a group to join him in the 1,000 mile cycle to Spain this June.

He said: “I would consider myself as team leader as I have the most experience in long distance cycling out of those who are currently going.

"There are many barriers we will need to get over as a team, so constant training is needed for everyone.”

Cycling team student Marco De La Chica said: “Having come all the way from Gibraltar, the idea of cycling from my new home in Middlesbrough down to my past home is quite appealing to me.

"Given that I have the knowledge of the Spanish culture, language and customs, I can now use that to my advantage and explore the country with my friends. I am very excited.”

In order for the team to survive the journey, they will need bikes and other equipment. They are seeking sponsorships and donations from the public and all equipment will be auctioned upon their return. All proceeds from the auction will go to the charities.

Any donations can be made via PayPal to Mr Putman at KristianPutman@gmail.com or you can contact him via email for alternative payment options.

The student team made up of; Kristian Putman, 20, Marco De la Chica, 19, Adam Fairbrother, 21, Ross Henderson, 19, James Burton, 20, Dominic Ashton, 19 and Ryan Howell, 23.

They are planning to produce media channels along with their YouTube, blog and Facebook pages to chart their journey and let followers keep up with them.