THREE executives are swapping the boardroom for the great outdoors next month to raise money for three charities.

The men, from specialist equipment hire company, Vp plc, of Harrogate, North Yorkshire, are setting out on a three-day, 180-mile sponsored cycle ride.

Chairman and chief executive Jeremy Pilkington, finance director Neil Stothard and services managing director John Singleton aim to raise £100,000.

Their journey starts from St Bees, in Cumbria, on Thursday, July 3, and is due to finish at Flamborough Head lighthouse, East Yorkshire, the following Saturday.

Funds raised will be shared between St Michael's Hospice, in Harrogate, the National Children's Home, and Christian Aid.

Mr Pilkington said: "We are looking forward to the challenge, which will help us to discover what hard work is like away from our desks. There is a good chance that we shall all be shedding a few pounds as well as raising them."

Anyone wanting to sponsor the riders can call Paula Stewart on (01423) 533428.