Pub regulars on their bikes for charity cash

And the landlord of the Lostock Arms will be welcoming them back to the bar -- with a free swim!

The regulars at the pub will be taking part in a sponsored cycle ride along with staff from art and design company, Portfolio, from Manchester to Blackpool.

Efforts

Portfolio's Darren Clare and his partner, Phil Shaw, first got involved in the cycle ride in aid of the Christie Hospital several years ago. Darren's wife, Christine, is a regular fundraiser for the charity.

And last year Phil's father, Dave, landlord at the Lostock Arms, joined their efforts with seven of his regulars.

This year, the numbers have grown and, between the Lostock Arms and Portfolio, there will be 60 cyclists taking part.

After last year's ride, landlord Dave installed a swimming pool for the weary riders when they came back to Bolton.

But this year he is getting a BIGGER pool as a thank you to the pedal pushers.

The cycle ride takes place on Sunday, July 9.

Phil said: "We will all be dressed in the same attire so should look a good team.

"Last year we decided to go ahead at the last minute and managed to raise £2,000, so this time we are hoping to raise about £10,000.

"The cyclist from our team who raises the most cash will win a trophy and weekend away in the Lake District courtesy of brewers Honeycombe Leisure."

Dave added: "Last year I approached a local firm and we provided a swimming pool at the pub for cyclists to cool down in.

"This time, we will do the same again, except with a much bigger pool. Then we will have a barbecue and band which will be open to everyone."

HB Coaches from Bolton has donated a 50-seat vehicle to bring the riders back from Blackpool in. Local firms Mick Silcocks and Mysons have also donated vans to transport bikes.

Dave said: "Barton Lake from Bolton will be putting in the swimming pool. It should look quite impressive. We are hoping to make a fundraising record -- the sky's the limit."