WHILE the Tour de France begins to wind its way from Holland to Paris, two intrepid West Devon cyclists are about to begin their own tour — Pedal for Pops.

The race will take Horrabridge residents Vicky and Martyn Woodbridge-Harris across the south of England to raise money for Prostate Cancer UK.

The pair are due to set off from Woodbridge in Suffolk on July 24, arriving in Exeter three days later and covering more than 300 miles en route.

Vicky's dad, Chris Woodbridge, died of prostate cancer last year and she has since been determined to do something positive in his memory: 'My dad, Pops, was always up for a challenge. He had represented Great Britain in surf lifesaving, been a canoeist, climber and sailor. He was passionate about Dartmoor and passed on this love through his time at the Outward Bound Centre at River Dart Country Park and later as the principle of Lyme Regis Outdoor Adventure Centre.

'Unfortunately, prostate cancer attacks men indiscriminately and his past endeavours proved to be meaningless in fighting the disease.'

As keen but amateur cyclists, a charity cycle ride provided Vicky and Martyn a great opportunity to raise funds for Prostate Cancer UK and a route was soon devised from Woodbridge, inspired by the family name, to Exeter, where Chris and his wife, Eddi, retired.

Martyn said: 'Once the route was decided upon and training began, we needed to get organised for the event. Luckily we have had help from two local businesses. Martin and Launa Legg at Tavistock Cycles have really helped by sponsoring our bikes preparation and Kevin and Noreen Shadrick of Moorgate Residential Home at Grenofen have generously sponsored our nutrition for the ride.

'The Horrabridge Cavaliers have also made a considerable donation to cover fuel costs. Now all we need are the donations to help us reach, or even exceed our sponsorship target.'

Martyn and Vicky are hoping to raise £2,000. Donations can be made by visiting http://www.justgiving.com/VickyWoodbridge-Harris">www.justgiving.com/VickyWoodbridge-Harris

People can follow their progress and preparation by visiting Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/pedalforpops">www.facebook.com/pedalforpops