A BANK worker from West Park is taking part in a cycling 'tour' this September to raise funds for Children in Need.

Stephen Graham, 39, is one of 60 members of staff from Lloyds Bank who will be pedalling to the Yorkshire town of Pudsey for the charity.

The 'Tour de Pudsey' challenge, which covers more than 300 miles, should take the father-of-two, who is an experienced cyclist, around three-and-a-half days to compete, starting in Edinburgh on September 13.

Stephen says he has has taken on big rides in the past, but this will be his "toughest challenge yet". As a dad to five-year-old twins, he is passionate about raising money for Children in Need and "making a difference to young people's lives across the country".

He said: "I have been a keen cyclist for many years now but even so, the thought of some of the hills we will be climbing en route to Pudsey is quite intimidating.

"I am going to focus on the impact that our fundraising will have on Children in Need to help motivate the team to complete the challenge together."

Jonathan Rigby, from the BBC, said: "The level of determination, endurance and positivity required to take on Tour de Pudsey will be no mean feat and we thank all of those involved.

"Every mile travelled and penny donated will go towards helping disadvantaged children and young people across the UK."

The Lloyds employees are taking the challenge as part of a charity of the year partnership with Children in Need.