Two men are donning lycra and cycling 180 miles from Paris to London on a tandem to raise money for charity.

Howard Ash, 40, from Madresfield Court, Shenley and Spencer Richman, 37, from Finchley, decided to take part in the cycle to raise money for Guts in Motion, a charity which researches Crohn’s and Colitis in children.

Michael Seres, from Radlett, founded the Guts in Motion charity five years ago and the cycle has become an annual event for anyone to take part in.

Mr Ash said: “Both Spencer and I have been involved in the bike ride before but this year we wanted to it a bit differently and decided we would use a tandem.

“It is a challenge but it is a great feeling.

“Spencer has the upmost faith in me because the tandem does not have any brakes and he cannot see in front of him because he can only see me.

“We have to communicate all the time and it has been a lot of fun but very hard.”

Guts in Motion helps to fund the needed research into the disease which are ongoing and life-long conditions where symptoms vary from person to person ranging from mild to severe.

The two cyclists are known for their road trips where they cover large distances usually with four wheels and petrol power.

The 180-mile ride will take three days to complete and according to Mr Ash many other people from Radlett have joined the cycle this year.

Mr Richman said: “Guts in Motion is very close to me. I have known Michael Seres for about five years now.

“He is a very inspirational man. I have done the cycle before but it gets hard to ask for sponsorships for the same event.

“Doing it on a tandem is a challenge and there are more things to think about whilst doing it. It is tough.

“I cannot brake, change the brakes and cannot see in front of me only behind. It is all about trust.

“There are some people who need to be mentioned. Those who take their spare time to organise the event.

“Andy Goodman, Paul Krisman, Bern Gilbey and Philip Lawndau should be congratulated.”

So far the two have raised nearly £1,500 and are hoping to raise more. All the money will go straight to the University College of London.

The cycle will begin on the weekend of July 8 to 10.

If anyone would like to donate to the challenge visit here: www.virginmoneygiving.com/howardandspencer