A GROUP of soldiers are undertaking a 24-hour cycle challenge to ride money for the NHS

A team from the Royal Lancers, Catterick, are taking part in a continuous ride for a 24-hour period on a Wattbike to raise money for James Cook Hospital's Ward 15, which is treating Covid-19 patients.

The ride is to take place on Friday, April 3 at 10am and finish tomorrow, April 4.

The team consists of Staff Sergeant Steven Burnell, Cpl Jon Bott, Cpl Brett Chaplin, Cpl Evan Galloway. They will individually take to their Wattbike to cycle on at the same time for the full 24 hours which will prove very a demanding test both mentally and physically.

Cpl Jon Bott said: “With the current crisis what’s going on I wanted to do my bit for charity and seeing what a fantastic job they are doing I think it’s time I gave something back, and personally want to test myself.  I’m physically fit anyway, however, we have been doing two to three hours of training a day with some flexibility in between.

“Well we set a target of £300. I think we need to be more ambitious. We are currently sitting at £3600. We are, as a team, overwhelmed with the support and donations so thank you very much.

“I personally have friends in the NHS working through this crisis, with a shortage of personal protective equipment and other assets we are hoping this will massively help ward 15 at James cook who are dealing with these Covid-19 patients.

“We would be overwhelmed if you can donate a small amount to this amazing cause and show some support to the NHS.”

The full duration of the 24hours will be streamed live on Facebook and Instagram.

There is a donation bucket up at The Royal Lancers Gymnasium for anyone who wants to give a cash donation, donations can be made online via their GoFundMe page.

Over £3,000 has been raised so far on GoFundMe, beating their target of £300. The fundraiser is open until Monday.