AN Eggesford grandmother and her granddaughter are joining forces to cycle from John O’ Groats to Lands End. With 60 years between them, Peggy Crome and Hannah Rainger are taking on the gruelling 1,000 mile challenge to raise money for youth cycling.

Peggy (73), and Hannah (13), of South Molton, are both members of North Devon Wheelers.

Hannah has competed in cycling competitions across the South West and recently represented the area in the Cycle London Grand Prix.

Peggy is an experienced athlete. She is an international age group triathlete with a host of medals for European and world championships for triathlons and Ironman 70.3 competitions.

Peggy said: “It’s going to be difficult but it’s for a really good cause. The cycling club does so much for young people and has members from all over mid and north Devon. With worries these days about childhood obesity it’s vital that kids can be active. Cycling is a great way for them to get exercising.”

The Wheelers are raising money to build a cycle grass track to deliver national standard cycling and coaching facilities. The aim is to give local young riders the opportunity to be able to compete on the same level as those living around Manchester, London and Newport where there are dedicated velodromes. Distance and access to such facilities leaves the area’s young people at a huge disadvantage.

“You never know, with a facility like this the Wheelers could produce another Bradley Wiggins or Laura Trott,” said Peggy.

The success of the Wheelers’ youth programme could be seen on Tuesday, August 16, when members Hannah, Neve Upton, Oli Stone, Holly Morrish, Ruben Stacey, and Eleanor Ley all received medals for winning their respective age groups in the South West cycling series.

Dedicated trainers give up their time for free to coach the youngsters to a high standard while instilling the benefits of hard work, sportsmanship and camaraderie.

The pair set out on their marathon trip on Wednesday, and hope to cycle around 100 miles a day.

You can donate to the cause at: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/1000milesofpain .