THREE Leighton men are currently pedalling their way towards John O'Groats in Scotland to raise money for children's charities.

Former Cedars Upper School maths teacher Morley Smith, Leighton Buzzard Golf Clubs' Kiwi coach Maurice Campbell and local postman Russell Goode, set off from Lands End, Cornwall, last Saturday and plan to complete their 980-mile journey in 13 days.

Though the oldest member of the biking trio at 64, Morley completed the same journey three years ago and raised £7,500 for charity. He enjoyed the experience so much he's teamed up with Maurice and Russell, 48, for a repeat – though he's more modest in his fund-raising ambitions second time around.

Morley is riding to raise cash for Action for Kids. Maurice will be donating his sponsor money to golf club Captain Andy Wright's charity fund to help disadvantaged children, and Russell, a member of the Bedfordshire seniors cricket team, is pedalling for the Great Ormond Street Hospital.

Two local businesses are backing the trio. Transport company boss James Heeps arranged to get their bikes and equipment to Lands End and Homebase manager John Preston is arranging to get their bikes back from Scotland's most north easterly outpost at the end of the epic ride.

Morley said: "We much appreciate the support we are getting.

"Riding over 70 miles a day for 13 days is quite challenging, but we're all up for it and looking forward to raising money to help others less fortunate."

Pictured are: Homebase boss John Preston with riders Russell Goode, Morley Smith and Maurice Campbell, and James Heeps of Heeps Transport.