INTREPID cyclists Mary Payne and Shaun Beckhelling are gearing up for a 1,000-mile challenge to get from from Land’s End to John O’Groats in aid of the Prospect Hospice.

The couple, of Turner Street, Swindon, will begin their ride on June 12 and are hoping to raise thousands of pounds for the Wroughton-based charity.

Mary, 31, said: “I’ve wanted to take on a challenge for years, something tough that I would have to really train hard for or suffer the consequences.

“Shaun is an avid off-road mountain biker and because we both love the outdoor life and try to experience as much in life as we can this seemed perfect for us both.”

Shaun’s mother Mo was diagnosed with cancer in 2009 and continues to receive support from Prospect@Home, a service which cares for patients in their own homes.

“On a personal level we felt that something of this scale could support a charity in a significant way,” Mary said.

“Mo had a very difficult time towards the end of 2009 and was cared for by Prospect Hospice.

“We were blown away by the genuine passion and commitment everyone had to the family as well as Mo.

“She is a fighter and, with their, and her family’s care and support, she is now living at home.”

Mary and Shaun, 40, have been going through gruelling hill-training sessions and endurance cycling to prepare for their challenge where they will be cycling 70 miles a day for two weeks.

Mary’s parents, Barbara Collins and Dave Payne, will be driving a support car during the trip.

They will be driving ahead to set up camp and carrying supplies and parts in case something goes wrong with the bikes.

“My work colleagues have also been phenomenal and have supported us in abundance,” said Mary. “Our hope is that we can raise about £2,000 and with the amazing support we have already had I really think this is possible. We may even beat it.”

To sponsor Mary and Shaun visit the website at http://uk.

virginmoneygiving.com/Mary Payne.