A team of staff from a Cockermouth law firm will take turns to pedal on the pavement in front of their office to show their support for the Tour of Britain and raise cash for a local charity.

Ten people from Brockbanks Solicitors will don fancy dress and hop on the saddle of a static bike on Main Street. Between them they will cover 216km - the same distance undertaken by all the stage three Tour cyclists setting off from Cockermouth on Tuesday, September 8.

The Brockbank Bikers will raise funds for Watchtree Wheelers, a Cumbrian charity providing specially adapted bikes for the disabled and disadvantaged.  They hope to raise £999, which would buy a junior model hand-bike for those with lower limb problems.

The staff will be taking to the saddle next Friday and Monday, September 7. One member of the team, solicitor Diana Smalley, will be doing her bit from a cruise ship in Italy.

Office administrator Belinda Hamblin said: “A number of us in the office have a passion for cycling – although for many it’s more about watching it than actually getting in the saddle! 

"We wanted to do something to celebrate the stage start of the Tour of Britain being held in Cockermouth and began bouncing ideas around the office. Initially we considered cycling the distance out on the road, an idea that was quickly quashed due to the fact our combined ages are well over 300 and many of the team can barely remember their cycling proficiency tests, let alone cope with a flat tyre!” 

Those from the firm whose talents lie elsewhere will contribute by providing sustenance, making bunting and shaking the charity bucket. 

Mrs Hamblin said: “Watchtree Wheelers was the perfect fit for the challenge. If we manage to raise the full £999 target this will allow even more disabled or disadvantaged children to enjoy the glorious Watchtree nature reserve near Carlisle. 

"We want as many people as possible to come to the office on Friday and Monday to cheer us on and donate a few pennies for the cause. Just no heckling please!” 

Ryan Dobson, project manager at Watchtree Wheelers, said: "The simple pleasure of riding a bike is often taken for granted but we aim to make it possible for all people to ride - no matter what obstacles might stand in their way."

To donate to the Brockbanks Bikers cause please visit www.justgiving.com/brockbanksbiker