HULL Kingston Rovers players are swapping their rugby boots for bicycles to encourage people to take part in the NSPCC's Big Bike Ride.

The event will take place at Sledmere House on Sunday, July 20.

Hull KR's Michael Dobson and Luke Menzies are saddling up for the challenge and calling for people in Hull and the East Riding to get on their bikes and help raise money for local children.

Michael Dobson said: “The Big Bike Ride is the perfect opportunity to get active, spend time with family and friends and raise money for a worthy cause.

“So don't miss your opportunity to sign up, get involved and help do something to put a stop to child cruelty.”

The NSPCC is the UK's leading charity specialising in child protection and the prevention of child cruelty.

It runs 180 projects and services throughout England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands helping 10,000 children and their families every year.

Entrants in the Big Bike Ride can choose from a seven or 15-mile circular route, which will start at Sledmere House and take in the surrounding countryside and villages of the Wolds.

Registration begins at 11am and start times will be staggered.

The entry fee is £5 in advance or £10 on the day, with a suggested minimum sponsorship of £20 per cyclist.

Claire Reading, community fundraising manager for the East Riding, said: “Money raised through sponsorship will help fund the NSPCC's services for children and young people, including Hull Family Centre, the NSPCC helpline and ChildLine – all of which offer support to children and young people.

“It doesn't matter if you're a serious cyclist, a Sunday afternoon freewheeler, or a family on bikes with kids on trikes.

“Just come along to Sledmere on July 20 and help raise funds to support vulnerable and abused children.”

For families who don't have the pedal power to complete the challenge there will be a family fun day at Sledmere House for all ages.

For more information or to register, call Amanda Ackroyd on (0113) 2299324, e-mail aackroyd@nspcc.org.uk or visit the Big Bike Ride website at www.bigbikeride.co.uk/sledmere