SWINDON people are being urged to follow in Lance Armstrong's tyre tracks and get on their bikes to help pensioners.

Jo Osorio, the director of Age Concern Swindon, pictured, is throwing down a challenge to people who like an adventure.

The Swindon branch of the charity is organising a bike ride in the mountains of the Pyrenees, in France, to raise money to enable older people living in Swindon to lead happy and fulfilling lives.

The five-day tour, which takes place in early September, will see participants tackling mountain passes made famous by riders of the Tour de France, like seven-time winner Armstrong. Daily distances will vary between 44 miles and 56 miles.

The ride will take in the French Pyrenees' highest mountain, the mighty Col de Tourmalet, which stands at more than 7,000 feet.

The challenge will be fully supported by tour leader Mike Sheppard, who moved from Swindon to France about 18 months ago.

For more information about the challenge contact Mel Richard, the fundraising manager at Age Concern Swindon, by telephone on 01793 692166 or by email at mel.richards@ageconcernswindon.org.uk.