When York vicar, the Rev David Casswell, couldn't find a tandem it seemed his plans make a charity cycle ride across England with his daughter had ground to a halt.

But now, thanks to the generosity of Evening Press readers, their charity fundraiser is back on track.

Mr Casswell and Tamsin, 20, of Clifton, are to cycle the 140 miles from Workington to Newcastle on Monday. They are raising money for a parish trip to Tanzania.

After a plea in the Evening Press, 16 people came forward offering a tandem. Mr Casswell said: "I've now got a bike, which has been lent to me by the Company of Cyclists, in Acaster Malbis, and because it's a charity event, they are not charging me." To sponsor the Craswells phone Clifton vicarage on 01904 655071.

Updated: 10:12 Saturday, April 02, 2005