IT will not be just another day at the office for three businesswomen — when they cycle more than 200 miles to raise money for three cancer charities.

Nicola Caffrey, Michelle Leatham and Amy Russell will cycle across Tanzania, with the aim of raising £20,000 for Breast Cancer Care, Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust and Ovarian Cancer Action.

The bike ride, which starts at Mount Kilimanjiro and finishes at the Ngorongoro Crater, is being organised by the charity Women v Cancer.

It will take place in October next year.

The women, who all own businesses in Bolton, came up with the idea after Mrs Caffrey saw a magazine article about the bike ride.

Mrs Caffrey, who owns Biz Assists, a virtual business support company, lost her father to cancer.

Two of her friends lost a parent to ovarian and breast cancer.

Mrs Caffrey, aged 35, from Heaton, said: “Cancer is something very close to me. I know what it’s like to lose someone to cancer and I’ve seen the effect it’s had on those around me.

"If I can raise enough money and help raise awareness, hopefully it will stop more people going through what myself and others have had to go through.”

Miss Leatham, who owns Westpine Property Lettings and Management in Horwich, says she is a mixture of nerves and excitement.

The 25-year-old from Darwen said: “It’s quite daunting, but it was never going to be easy. I’m looking forward to learning about the African culture and seeing a side of the country that other tourists don’t get to see. I want to push myself and take myself out of my comfort zone.”

Mrs Russell, owner of Amy Russell Photography, has herself had a cancer scare, when she had a smear test.

She also has a friend who has been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Mrs Russell, aged 31, of Smithills, is no stranger to charity challenges, having done the Manchester 10K Run, a skydive and a 26 mile walk to Blackpool.

She said: “I’m really excited about it. My little girl has said ‘Mummy’s going to Africa, she will be back tomorrow’”

The minimum fundraising target for the bike ride is £3,000 and Women v Cancer will provide a bike, accommodation and flights.

To donate to the women’s bike ride or find out more, visit justgiving.comfages