Residents at a Dorset care home have shown that age is no barrier when it comes to raising cash through pedal power.

Riders at Avon Reach in Mudeford have begun a month-long ‘international’ cycling challenge in aid of their local food bank. 

They aim to clock up 376 miles on a static exercise bike, the equivalent distance from the Colten Care home to French twin town Saint-Lo and back.

The Mayor of Christchurch, Councillor Paul Hilliard, joined them in the foyer and took to the saddle to cycle the first few miles.

The in-home relay is in aid of Christchurch Food Bank+ whose representative Sarah Veal continued the Mayor’s good work by doing the second stretch herself.

She was followed by several Avon Reach residents determined to do their bit including 99-year-old Erika Pillman and Ron Morris.

Ron said: “It’s a privilege to get in the saddle and do what we can to support this local charity.”

As well as residents, Avon Reach staff, relatives and visitors are also hopping on the bike for short rides and recording the distance as they call in at reception.

Sponsorship of more than £500 has been confirmed so far, with the challenge continuing until the end of October.

The food bank is the main charity that Avon Reach residents have chosen to support this year.

A community cocktail party and a country and western-themed barbecue together raised nearly £1,500.

Residents also prepared and donated 240 lunch bags which the food bank distributed to families in need during the school summer holidays.

Christchurch Food Bank+ is based at St Joseph’s Church in Purewell.