RESIDENTS are being invited to get on their bikes in support of a major charity challenge linked to Red Nose Day.

Staff and customers at Freedom Leisure Cinderford are taking part in an indoor cycling challenge to support Greg James as he attempts to cycle 1,000 kilometres across the UK.

The BBC Radio 1 presenter set off from Weymouth on Friday, March 13, and aims to reach Edinburgh by Friday, March 20 as part of Radio 1’s ‘Longest Ride’ challenge.

To show their support, the team at the Cinderford leisure centre have set up a bike in reception where visitors can hop on and add their miles to a running total throughout the week.

Indoor cycling classes are also contributing mileage each day as staff and customers try to collectively match the 1,000km distance being tackled by the Radio 1 presenter.

Children are being encouraged to get involved as well by completing bike rides at home and bringing their mileage into the centre so it can be added to the tally.

Participants can also donate to Comic Relief using a QR code displayed at the centre while taking part in the challenge.

The initiative is part of a wider effort across Freedom Leisure sites in the Forest of Dean to support the fundraising challenge while encouraging people to stay active and get involved with the community.

Early efforts have already produced impressive results, with customers and staff across the district clocking up 179 miles on the first day as James travelled from Weymouth to Bristol.

On the second day, riders added another 116.6 miles as the presenter continued his journey from Bristol to Abergavenny.

Staff at the centre say they hope more residents will pop in, jump on the bike for a few minutes and help push the total closer to the ambitious target before Red Nose Day.