A GORSE Covert mum is getting on her bike in the name of charity.

Lesley Thornton, aged 37, is taking on two sponsored bike rides to raise money for Gorse Covert Pre School.

The first ride on Sunday, June 6, was in the Peak District and totalled a distance of 45 miles.

Not content with tackling the hills and tors of the Peak District, the active mum is now gearing up for the Manchester to Blackpool bike ride on July 18 - a gruelling 59 miles.

Lesley said: "I did the Manchester to Blackpool bike ride last year for a national charity.

"But because my little boy has started pre-school I wanted to do something more community based so that the community could see the benefit."

And to cheer Lesley along her way, the youngsters at Gorse Covert Pre School will also be taking part in a sponsored bike ride - covering five laps of the playground.

Any child who cannot ride a bike will be able to push a pram or ride a scooter.

Lesley's three-year-old son Luke will also be taking part in the event.

Lesley said: "He has only just learned to pedal and it takes him a while - he goes backwards more than forwards.

"He is only a little thing, but it's the taking part that counts."

If you want to sponsor Lesley in her valiant efforts, or any of the pre school students in their bike ride, call Jennifer Woodward, a member of the pre school's fundraising committee, on 826158.