INTREPID Durham man Richard Toynbee will cycle 300 miles across China in aid of disabled charity, Mencap.

Richard, 34, acting manager at the city's Prince Bishops Shopping Centre, will be one of 100 cyclists making the journey from the Great Wall of China to Tiananmen Square, in the capital Beijing.

He and friend Andy Bradley, 33, of Kettering, have raised £2,500 each in sponsorship, even before their adventure begins on September 16.

The journey is expected to take nine days across different types of terrain and the cyclists will cover between 40 to 70 miles each day.

A support team of medics will accompany the riders - but they have been told to take nappy rash cream in case they get saddle sore.

Richard, of Nevilles Cross, has been training two to three times a week in the gym and hitting the Deerness Valley and Lanchester cycle paths.

He and Andy were donated training bikes by Cycle Force, of Claypath, Durham City.

Richard said: "I have never been to China before and I am looking forward to it immensely.

"It is a fantastic challenge which will not only help me get fit, it will do a little bit for Mencap."

Money raised through the bike ride will help Mencap's work supporting people with learning disabilities, their families and carers.

Anyone wishing to help Richard can contact him on (0191) 3750416