A challenge over a pint of beer has turned into a marathon cycle ride for two friends who will pedal from London to Paris next month.

James McCrea, of Long Stratton, and Ryan Butler, of Hoveton, will be setting off on the 300 mile cycle on July 28 and hope to raise thousands of pounds for charity.

Mr McCrea, 32, who is a teacher at Hillside Avenue Primary School in Norwich, hopes to generate more than �2,000 for East Anglia's Children's Hospices (EACH).

Mr Butler, 38, who works for Menzies Distribution in Norwich, will be raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support during the three day event.

The duo, who have been cycling to work as part of their training, said the idea came about as they discussed ways to boost their fitness levels whilst at the Norwich Beer Festival last year.

'We had it organised with a company, but they let us down just before Easter, so we decided to organise it ourselves. This way, every bit of money goes straight to the charity,' said Mr McCrea.

Their partners will follow from London to Paris in a camper van support vehicle.

To sponsor the men, visit www.justgiving.com/RyanButler1 and www.justgiving.com/JamesMcCrea