Organisers of a sponsored trek from Bradford to its German twin town are urging people to get on their bikes.

Keighley-based top sprint cyclist Anthony Gill, who rides with the Great Britain team, is on the look-out for 16 other riders to join him on the 314-mile challenge to Hamm in April.

Anthony, a sports development officer at Keighley Leisure Centre for Bradford Council's Sport and Leisure Services, hopes the ride will bring in thousands of pounds for the civic appeal by Bradford's Lord Mayor, Councillor Chaudhary Rangzeb, which is supporting Bradford Sports & Recreation Association for People with Disabilities.

Proceeds from the appeal will also be split with the Born In Bradford project which charts the health of the district's children.

Co-organiser Robert Cooper, who works with BSRAPD, said: "We're looking for up to 16 other cyclists of all abilities and experience to join us. We also need lots of sponsorship from businesses. The more sponsorship we get, the more profit we can give to the appeal. We need help with everything and anything from cycle parts, to diesel, ferry fares and drinks to keep the cyclists on track."

The challenge pedals off on Thursday, April 26, with a 55-mile cycle from Bradford to Hull docks in time for an overnight ferry to Rotter-dam in Holland. That will be followed by a 100-mile ride on quiet, flat roads to Nimejgen the next day and a stay in a four-star hotel.

An 80-mile ride is planned on the third day taking the cyclists to Bradford's twin town of Hamm for a welcome party and well-earned free relaxation trip to a spa.

Sunday is going to be a day off from the saddle before catching a train back on Monday, April 30, from Hamm to Rotterdam and a 24-mile cycle to the Euro Port for an overnight ferry.

The last day will be spent cycling the final 55 miles back to Bradford.

All cyclists need to secure a place is a £50 deposit and a minimum of £300 in sponsorship. All travel expenses, accommodation and back-up support from qualified leaders is included free - as well as a cycling jersey.

Organisers are appealing for businesses to help sponsor the event from helping out with travel costs, to providing sports drinks, support vehicles and advertising on the jerseys.

As well as the cyclists en route there will be one extra participant hitching a ride - Brad Ford bear, the Lord Mayor's Appeal mascot.

Anyone wanting information should contact Anthony on (01535) 680007 or Rob on (01274) 437093. They can also be e-mailed at anthony.gill @bradford.gov.uk or bsr@ btconnect.com e-mail: kathie.griffiths @bradford.newsquest.co.uk