Shoe repairer John Holdroyd, 24, is gearing up to take part in the Cycling for Shoe Recycling fundraiser next month.

The nationwide relay, which is split into 20-mile sections between Aberdeen and Lyme Regis, has been organised by trade suppliers' organisation Cutting Edge to improve awareness of shoe recycling at the same time as raising £20,000 for Children In Need.

Mr Holdroyd, of the Shoecare shop in Newgate Street, has signed up to tackle the Powburn to Morpeth stretch, along
with colleagues from Berwick.

And though the Stobhill resident's own bike is currently out of action, he will be borrowing one from organisers and is confident of completing the challenge, with twice weekly visits to the gym to get in shape.

"I've never been on that route before, but I'm not worried about it," he said.

"I used to go cycling quite often with mates. We did about ten to 15 miles every now and again.

"This is something different and it means I get a Saturday off work, but the main thing is that it's to raise money for the kiddies.

"It's the first time we have got the sponsorship forms through at work, but we're hoping it is going to be a yearly thing."

More than 100 cyclists are predicted to take part in the event, with each given a target to raise £200.

However, Mr Holdroyd has exceeded expectations with £260 in sponsorship pledged already and more pouring in from customers.

Shoecare Manager Bob Bradley said: "I think he wants his head examined, but it is a good cause. All I'll say is better him than me."

The challenge has been timed to take place during National Shoe Repair Week and will promote the message that old footwear can be given a new lease of life.

Two routes have been set up to cover the East and West of the country and a pair of shoes will be passed along each to be soled, heeled and polished along the way.

Cutting Edge Committee Chairman Chris Wilson said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for repairers, wholesalers and manufacturers of the shoe repair industry to raise thousands of pounds for Children In Need.

"We have chosen National Shoe Repair Week for the challenge so we can promote the green aspect of our trade.

"We would like to encourage people to recycle their shoes, rather than throw them away, hence our slogan, 'Mend them, don't dump them'."

Anyone donating £1 or more in sponsorship will be given a shoe shine buffer.

The challenge runs from Friday, September 5 to Tuesday, September 9, with the Morpeth section taking place on the Saturday.

For more information log onto www.shoerecycling.co.uk or to sponsor Mr Holdroyd call into the Shoecare shop.