TWO Upton teenagers will be pedalling furiously to raise £1,000 to provide clean water for developing countries.

The sponsored ride with a difference is being staged by Luke Leighfield, of Longfield, and Andrew La Fontaine, of Monsell Lane, who will be joined by Sam Goad, of Gloucester.

The 14-year-olds plan to cycle the nine miles from Upton to Tewkesbury on June 5 to raise money for Water Aid.

But instead of completing the trip on racers or mountain bikes, the trio will be setting off on monkey bikes and a unicycle, meaning it will take them about four hours to complete the journey.

"We're doing the ride because we wanted a challenge to do on our bikes and this seemed quite challenging," said Luke.

"But afterwards, I thought, if I'm going to do this I might as well raise some money at the same time for a great cause.

"So that's what we're doing and we hope people will support us in our bid to raise over a £1,000."

Proud dad Robin Leighfield, who will help supervise the ride, said his son's imagination had been fired during a recent family trip to The Gambia.

"Since then he's been very keen to do something for the people of Africa," said Mr Leighfield. "Just one water pump can supply a whole village."

Anyone who would like to sponsor the boys should ring Luke on 01684 592970.

l Andrew La Fontaine and Luke Leighfield get ready for their sponsored ride. 20184160D