BOLTON is gearing up for Sport Relief.

The bi-annual charity event, which brings together sport and entertainment to support people in need across the world, officially starts today and runs until Sunday.

Among those to have supported Sport Relief are white goods supplier ao.com.

Five employees from the company’s Bolton base are taking part in a 50-mile cycle ride to Old Trafford and back on Sunday for the event.

One of the riders, Janina Rustige, said: “I’m really excited to be taking part in the Sport Relief 50 mile cycle as it’s a great opportunity to raise money which will help change lives here in Bolton, across the UK and around the world.

“If there’s anyone who is considering taking part in the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Cycle, I’d urge them to sign up now because if we can do it anyone can.

“You don’t even have to do 50 miles like us, there is a 25-mile option or you can just cycle three miles with your family.”

Today, 120 staff at ao.com will also volunteer as Sports Relief call centre staff, receiving calls from people pledging money to the cause.

The team will also be getting involved with the company’s dress down week, playing games and selling wristbands.

Also getting sporty is the Bolton One Leisure Centre in Bolton, which is hosting the Sainsbury's Sport Relief Swimathon from today until Sunday, 10am to 1pm.

Bolton FM presenters are taking part in their own mental marathon, with the station’s presenters Ross Elliot and John Entwistle putting on a 12-hour, non-stop radio show.

They will take to the air from 7am until 7pm and are asking all sports clubs and schools in Bolton to get involved.

Showing off their sporting prowess will be staff and pupils at Birtenshaw School, who have put on a waterpolo tournament and an adventure trail today.

On Wednesday, they also played football to raise funds for Sports Relief.

Emily Haddock, deputy headteacher at the school, said: “I think our children have really appreciated helping other people who are in need of support.

They have really enjoyed taking part in these activities.”

A number of other schools will put on fundraising events today, including Mytham Primary School in Mytham Road, Little Lever, Firwood High School in Stitch-Mi-Lane, Harwood, and St Paul’s CE Primary School in Newnham Street, Astley Bridge.