A bid by Churches Together in Ilkley to pedal the equivalent of the 2,000 mile distance to Syria got off to a head start when members and friends of Ben Rhydding Methodist Church pedalled a total of 650 miles.

They raised more than £650 towards the £2,000 target, which will be sent to aid children and families suffering as a result of the conflict in Syria.

Residents and staff of the Methodist home, Emmandjay Court, off Valley Drive, were among those who entered into the spirit of the challenge, pedalling 25 miles and raising over £50.

Next to take up the challenge will be members of St John’s Church, Ben Rhydding.