The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has put its support behind a charity challenge which will see a team of fundraisers cycle almost 1,000 miles through Britain.

The Children’s Centre is offering Island residents the chance to join the Land’s End to John O’Groats (LEJOG) cycle challenge in July. Over nine days the riders will cover the length of the British Isles to raise money for the Manx charity which develops, manages and pioneers community initiatives and services aimed at enabling children, young people and families to realise their full potential.

Each team member must pay a ?95 registration fee and then either raise ?1,250 for The Children’s Centre or raise ?750 for the charity and pay a personal contribution of ?500 to cover costs.

The Steam Packet Company is supporting the effort by assisting with the cost of travel to and from the UK for the team.

Adventure Events Fundraising Coordinator at The Children’s Centre Mark Eastham said: ‘This is the ultimate British cycling challenge. Starting from Cornwall, the route goes over Dartmoor, along the Welsh border, around the Lake District into Scotland and then, via the lochs and mountains, to the north coast and the finishing point at John O’Groats. This is a tough challenge but also a fabulous way to see some of the most stunning and remote countryside in the British Isles, and one of the most rewarding things those taking part will ever do.

‘I’d like to thank the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company for its ongoing support of The Children’s Centre. Assistance with the travel for this challenge will help to keep down the cost of taking part for everyone who signs up.’

During the challenge, which runs from 1st to 11th July, an experienced leader will cycle with the team and be on hand to help with any bike problems. A back up van will also follow the team, carrying a spare bike and spare parts, so that repairs can be made en-route.

The challenge will require a reasonable level of fitness, so pre-event training is essential. The Children’s Centre's fundraising team will give advice and support on every aspect, including fundraising, kit and physical condition.

Steam Packet Company Chief Executive Mark Woodward said: ‘This is a major challenge to take on which will require physical determination as well as dedication to fundraising. I wish everyone who takes part the very best of luck; it will be an amazing experience.

‘The Children’s Centre does extremely valuable work in the Isle of Man and we’re pleased to be able to once again assist with its fundraising efforts.’

Visit www.thechildrenscentre.org.im/adventure-events for details about joining the LEJOG challenge.

Photo - The team which raised funds for The Children’s Centre on the Land’s End to John O’Groats cycle challenge in 2012.