Big-hearted cyclists who have legs strong enough to cycle from Paris to London are being sought for a charity bike ride.

The challenge will raise money for the Mayor of Hertsmere’s two charities, the Ben Kinsella Trust, which combats knife crime, and The Langdon Foundation, which helps people with learning difficulties lead independent lives.

Participants will get on their bikes in Paris and cycle along the banks of the Seine, past the Palace of Versailles and through the French countryside.

After crossing the Channel, they will cycle into London to be received at the Houses of Parliament.

On the last afternoon of the ride, cyclists will be joined by family and fun riders for the final push to Borehamwood.

Mayor of Hertsmere Paul Morris and former EastEnders actress Brooke Kinsella set the wheels in motion last week with a launch event at the Venue leisure centre in Borehamwood.

The actress, best known for playing Kelly Taylor in the soap, founded the Ben Kinsella Trust to raise awareness of knife crime after her brother was stabbed to death in 2008.

She said: "It is an honour to be chosen as one of the Mayor's charities this year and I am really excited – and a little bit petrified – to be taking part in the cycle ride next year.

“I am so grateful to all those who have signed up and are giving their time and dedication to support two brilliant charities.”

Cllr Morris thanked Ms Kinsella for agreeing to take part in the challenge.

He said: “I have taken part in many long-distance cycle rides and I know that anyone who takes part will have a tremendous experience and know that they are supporting two very good causes.

“I am delighted that Brooke will be cycling herself, she has done such great work for the trust set up in memory of her brother.

"Two of Langdon's residents, who have learning disabilities, are currently in training to take part and that is very inspiring."

Riders will pay £99 towards the cost of the 189-mile challenge and are asked to raise a minimum of £999 in sponsorship.

Hertsmere Leisure is supporting the bike ride and is offering free spin classes to all participants to help them get fit ahead of the challenge.

The organisation is also providing training for the Mayor as well as vehicles and drivers to support the riders on both sides of the Channel.

Manager of Hertsmere Leisure Mark Young said: "Hertsmere Leisure is completely behind this event and for those who can't make the main ride, we will be giving them other opportunities to help by holding gym challenges at The Venue in the New Year.

The fee for the ride covers all travel, accommodation, meals and the support of the CycleWild team.

Places can be booked at the Mayor’s Charity Bike Ride website www.challenge.uk.com