A team of 20 members and friends from Esporta Rustington, West Sussex, with a support team of four, are riding from Worthing to Paris, to raise funds in aid of St Barnabas House. The ride will take place between 9 and 12 September 2010. The ride has been organised by Peter Stapleton, a member of Esporta Health Club, Rustington, along with a group of friends from the club.

'In October 2009, following a Saturday Morning Spin Class, the conversation went to adventure holidays, 'what we would like to do....Climb Kilamanjaro, Cycle from John O'Groats to Lands end, walk the Great Wall and Cycle from London To Paris', were just a few of the suggestions.

'From that point on the idea was sown. It was at this point, thanks to Chris Edmunds, I got pushed in to the frame for organising the event. Having previously organised a trip to the Le Mans 24 Hour Motor Race it was suggested 'Peter you're good at organising things, how about you organise a cycle trip to Paris'. The rest you may say is history.

'A week later I had a plan, organised some support vehicles, thought of a route, and decided that the event would raise money St Barnabas House who are a worthy local charity in the process of building their new hospice and would benefit from additional funds.'

The event will take place, starting Thursday 9 September leaving Esporta and ending at the Eiffel Tower on Saturday 11 September. A target of £10,000 has been set.

To start the fundraising Tony and Lou Harris organised a 4 Hour Spin Cycle Marathon at the Club. 26 riders used the clubs spin bikes which have were provided courtesy of Esporta, and raised £1,000 for St Barnabas House. Well Done to you all and good luck for your challenge.

To show your support and sponsor the team, visit www.justgiving.com/Team-Esporta-and-friends