Beauticians, sales assistants and managers were feeling geared up at the weekend as they tackled a mammoth fundraising challenge.

Staff at Debenhams in Borehamwood Shopping Park, off Theobald Street, Borehamwood, pedalled the distance from London to Dunkirk in store as part of a fundraising attempt for Help for Heroes.

Using an exercise bike, shoppers watched on as staff took it in turns to rattle buckets and get in the saddle to pedal part of the 146 mile distance.

Joanna, 11, and sister Jessie, nine, said: “We were watching the ladies cycling and thought it was really funny. They said they were cycling to France but not going anywhere.

“We put some of our pocket money into the buckets though because it is for charity and you’re supposed to be good and help people.”

The store’s aim was to raise £500, however staff have already met the target through previous fundraisers and so any money made from the cycle is seen as a “bonus”.

The charity ride was organised as part of the Debenhams National Collection weekend for the charity, taking place across the country from March 21 to 22.

Chairman of the Debenhams Foundation Nikki Zamblera said: “We are delighted to announce our partnership with Help for Heroes.

"Debenhams is committed to raising money for causes that are close to the hearts of our staff and customers and we look forward to supporting Help for Heroes as part of our wider commitment to charity.”