Kind-hearted Weymouth fundraisers have planned a 50-mile cycle to raise money so they can support Ukrainian families in Dorset.

Retired Weymouth teacher Andy Dukes, Reverend Nick Clarke and others will be cycling a route from Sherborne to Wareham on National Cycle Routes 26 and 2 on Saturday, October 7.

Last September Nick and Andy cycled 33 miles from Weymouth to Swanage to raise funds to take 50 Weymouth-based Ukrainian refugee family members for a day out at Cumulus Outdoors Centre in Swanage.

Andy Dukes said: "It is my birthday weekend and I thought I could use it to do something good.

"There is a monstrous hill at Halstock but once we are done with that it is all flat or downhill, but that bit is tough.

"There is all sorts of stuff we would like to do to support the Ukrainians."

The duo will be joined by Andy's friends from when he was a teacher; and his personal trainer Marcus Biles from First Class Fitness who pushed him to take the challenge this year.

Part of the money raised will again go towards giving 50 Ukrainian families a day of fun at Cumulus Outdoors Centre as well as other support initiatives.

Andy Dukes said: "We have since been able to support local Ukrainian Refugees in a number of ways that include starting up small businesses, finding employment matching skills, and providing social and enjoyable activity. We are also working in liaison with the 'AsOne' Theatre Company which is creating an archive and legacy of South Dorset Ukrainian Refugee experiences.

"We have formed a 'Steering Group' of Ukrainians and they have asked for support in a range of practical issues. As such, we have initiated a 'Support Hub' at St Aldhelms Church Weymouth to help with this.

"We wish to continue organising social events and trips out to promote connection and networking between Ukrainian local people; and support involvement in local services and activities like youth clubs, Scouts and Guides for youngsters as well as sports, social clubs, places of worship, toddler groups and Ukrainian culture groups."

Andy would like to thank Citizens Advice and Dorset County Council for supporting local refugees and the Dorset Community Fund who donated a grant to support the efforts.

If you would like to support them on their cycle please visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/andrew-dukes to donate.