A GROUP of cyclists is gearing up to ride 600 miles in aid of two Bradford organisations.

Members of Bradford Cycle Club will travel from the city to one of the most famous cycling towns in the world, Roubaix - with some tackling the infamous Hell of the North cobbles.

The six-day challenge starts tomorrow and is in aid of the Bradford Bulls Foundation and Choices4All. The Foundation provides a safe place for cyclists to train, while Choices4All - based at the University of Bradford - help disabled people access sports and activities.

Chris Nelson, of the cycle club, said: "It's up to 600 miles of cycling in six days. It’s going to be hard and brutal. However, it is for two great causes."

The 19 riders - made up of men and women aged between 14 and 69 - will set off from City Park tomorrow at about 8am.

A club spokesman said: "Many of the cyclists will be overcoming their own unique challenges on the ride - some have overcome health issues and others have never cycled before.

"The ride will be split into two groups. One will take on the famous cobbles of Roubaix where just staying upright is the challenge, while the social ride takes a more scenic route to the city.

"All the riders have been invited to a civic reception in Roubaix where gifts from the mayors of both cities will be exchanged."

Foundation development officer Duane Scott is doing the ride. He said: "It’s going to be one of the toughest things I have ever done but I am looking forward to taking part in the challenge with all the other cyclists and raising the profile of cycling in the city."

University of Bradford student Vashil Jasgray is also doing it. He said: "I'm only in the UK for one year as I'm doing a Masters degree. I'm looking forward very much to experiencing European culture.

"This is a great way to make a difference in the short time I’m here by raising money for two very good causes. I only hope that the weather is like it is in my home country of Mauritius."

Bradford-based online fashion retailer La Redoute, whose French headquarters are in Roubaix, have signed up as title partners for the challenge.

Richard Burke, CEO at La Redoute UK, said: "We wish Bradford Cycle Club the best of luck with this exciting challenge. As a business headquartered in Roubaix with its UK head office in Bradford, it’s an absolute pleasure to be able to support the club as they endeavour to raise much-needed funds for two very worthy local causes.

"We look forward to waving the team off on the April 5!"

The riders will be officially welcomed home on April 14 at the Good Friday rugby league game between Bradford Bulls and Halifax at Odsal.

Anyone wishing to donate to the riders should contact the Foundation on 01274 729728 or www.bullsfoundation.org, or Choices4All on 01274 235421 or at www.bradfordunisu.co.uk/choices-4-all.