A TEAM of keen cyclists will saddle up for a ride to one of the most spectacular locations in France.

Sara Smith, 41, and John Keat, 36, from Sutton Benger, Steve Mayhew, 39, from Great Somerford and Julie Clough, 37, from Swindon are taking part in the Chartreuse Challenge 2002, from Le Havre on the channel coast to Saint Pierre de Chartreuse, high in the Alps above Grenoble.

The team will cycle the 500 plus miles in relay over three days. Sponsorship from the challenge goes to a dozen national charities and the local riders are also raising money for for two local charities, the Bristol Children's Hospital and North Wiltshire holiday club for children with special needs.

"We girls are putting in lots of training and for all of us really it is certainly a personal challenge and one which should be a good experience," said Mrs Smith, who is a member of North Wiltshire Holiday Club's committee. While one person cycles the others will travel in the support vehicle. Each person will cycle for half an hour.

The team sets out on October 3. Their cycle starts the following day and they are due to reach Saint Pierre De Chartreuse on October 6.

Anyone who wants to offer a donation can call Mrs Smith on (01249) 720083.