DESIGNER wear may be his business, but for the next few months, Charles Barker, owner of the Northallerton department store, is into sports gear.

In June, the head of Barkers plans to cycle from London to Paris - a distance of 300 miles - with the aim of raising £2,000 for the British Wheelchair Sports Foundation.

He is training daily, as he says his last notable experience on a bike was passing his cycling proficiency test in 1962.

Mr Barker will be among a group of cyclists raising money for the charity on the four-day challenge.

The money will be used to develop opportunities for children and adults with disabilities to become involved in wheelchair sports.

"I wouldn't say I was a keen cyclist, but I'm in training," said Mr Barker, who was inspired to join the ride after seeing disabled athletes take part in ski competitions.

He now cycles to and from work each day.

"It's not something I've ever done before so I'm trying to get in as much practice as possible. It's going to be hard work, but it's for such a worthwhile cause that will benefit a lot of people."

For details on sponsoring Mr Barker, contact 01609 772303.