A Catterick nursery nurse has been pedalling the district's roads with her partner in preparation for one of the biggest challenges of her life.

Jo Adams will join more than 100 others on a gruelling, 254-mile cycle ride across the Egyptian desert to raise money for Mencap next year.

At the moment, training includes three, 15-mile rides every week with another 40 miles completed at the weekend.

"I know the UK climate is nowhere near as hot as the Middle East so I've been doing my training in a jumper,'' said Jo. "My parents and my husband, Nick, have been really supportive since I decided I wanted to take part.''

However, the 28-year-old said it was the children at the Catterick Bridge Day Nursery who inspired her.

"Some have special needs and looking after them prompted me to ask myself what I have achieved,'' she said. "It was soon after that I heard about the sponsored ride.''

Jo will be joined on the way by Richmondshire District Council planning officer, Beverly Booth, who also signed up earlier this year.

Anyone who would like to help either with the £2,000 they each need to raise to help cover costs can contact Jo on (01748) 812277 or Beverly on (01748) 822591.