Two fitness fans want to get more people on their bikes in a 24-hour “spinathon” which could see participants pedal the equivalent distance of riding from Sydney to Leeds.

Sarah and Alex Mayrick want as many people as possible to sign up to the event, individually or as part of a team, at Dillons Health and Fitness Studio in Ilkley.

The couple, from Burley-in-Wharfedale, are doing the London Marathon in April in aid of charity Children With Cancer UK, and aim to boost fundraising towards their £7,500 goal.

The event will start at 6pm on January 25, and it is hoped to keep the exercise bikes going until 6pm the following day.

Mrs Mayrick, 39, is a fitness instructor and personal trainer at the Ilkley gym, on Railway Road.

She said: “The idea behind it is that we will get all of the 21 Dillon’s spin bikes pedalling for the full 24 hours.

“In doing so we’ll rack up the combined distance of riding from Sydney to Leeds in one night.

“We are looking to find lots of volunteers for the event.”

She has never tackled a marathon before, but has completed long-distance runs.

Her husband, Alex, 40, has run a marathon in the past. Both are confident they can complete the 26-mile course.

Teams of riders – including a minimum of four but no more than ten – can take on one of the bikes at the gym for the whole 24 hours as part of the Spinathon.

Each team member will be asked to donate £25 or more to take part.

Any additional fundraising will be gratefully received.

Some of the bikes will also be available over the 24 hours for a one-hour slot, if riders want to drop in and make a donation in exchange for taking part. Participants need to sign up at Dillons in advance or contact organisers Further help is also needed, including organising getting people on to their bikes at the event, collecting money, raising awareness and even making coffee and keeping spirits high. Contact Mrs Mayrick on (07818) 025453, e-mail sazzle174@hotmail.com, or visit uk.virginmoney giving.com/SarahandAlexMayrick for more information.