A FUEL distributor is attempting to raise £40,000 towards a Help for Heroes cycling challenge in South Africa.

Independent distributor Oil NRG, which has depots in Stockton and York, is getting behind cyclists from Phoenix House recovery centre in Catterick Garrison when they set off on a gruelling seven-day cycling event, Blood, Sweat and Gears.

The veterans taking part are being joined by Oil NRG's Freddie Peart and rugby legend Will Greenwood.

Oil NRG is hoping to raise £40,000 on top of the £250,000 already targeted by the team, to raise vital funds to help fund health and psychological wellbeing activities and programmes at Phoenix House.

The ride will include seven mountain passes and over 18,000ft of climbs between Fanschhoek and Knysna.

Oil NRG’s Jeremy Royle, head of sales and marketing, said: "Oil NRG has chosen to support Help for Heroes because they provide direct practical support for wounded, injured and sick veterans, servicemen and women and their loved ones, many of whom are Oil NRG customers."

To donate to Oil NRG’s Just Giving page visit www.justgiving.com/oilnrg and following the updates on Facebook.