An epic cycling challenge involving an East Yorkshire father and daughter has been given a boost by a Howden bathroom business.

On 31st July, Geoff and Sophie Earl from Asselby near Howden will embark on the famous Lands End to John O’Groats cycle ride, with no support vehicle and riding the 1080 miles with just what they can carry on their bikes.

Geoff Earl, Sophie Earl and Laurie Kersey prepare for their epic cycle ride

Generously supported by Aquarius of Howden and other local businesses, the father, daughter and two friends, Laurie Kearsey (24) and Mark Mihkelson (50) aim to complete the grueling ride, taking the longer East Coast route to accommodate a pit stop in Asselby on 5th August, in only 14 days.

Geoff, who will celebrate his 50th birthday later this year and who describes himself as ‘a keen cyclist since Easter!’ explained how the challenge came about; “Over a year ago Sophie and I started talking about doing something memorable during her 2010 summer vacation from Sheffield University and we decided to do the cycle ride to raise money for World Vision as it’s a charity that we’ve supported for many years. The challenge has been made possible thanks to businesses like Aquarius, who have provided our cycling shirts and made a generous donation and we’re all very grateful.”

Sophie continued; “We’ve been cycling 100 miles a week in training since Easter and we’re quietly confident that we can rise to the challenge of averaging around 80 miles a day. The route and accommodation have been meticulously planned and we’re all really looking forward to raising lots of money for worthwhile charities.”

World Vision is an organisation that provides help and support for children and families in the poorest parts of the world to help overcome poverty and injustice. They help people to help themselves and achieve some of the things that we take for granted. Geoff and Sophie have already beaten their £3000 fundraising target, but would welcome more donations to benefit World Vision. If you would like to support them, please visit www.justgiving.com/fromlandsendtojohnogroats.