WILDLIFE artist and cyclist Andy Beck will be combining his two passions in the heat of the African desert when he sets off on a sponsored bike ride.

Andy, who owns the Newgate Gallery, in Barnard Castle, has chosen to take up the challenge of a lifetime to raise funds for Save the Rhino International and the David Shepherd Conservation Foundation.

He is taking part in the ride in June to help equip wildlife rangers in Africa, where the number of black rhinos has dropped from 65,000 to 2,800 since 1970.

He will be making sketches and taking photographs during his 300km (187 mile) trip through the Damaraland of Namibia.

He said: "People can sponsor me and get something back. By holding the challenge in the country and habitat where the rhino exists means that I can see first-hand how the money will be spent. And, hopefully, the sketches will give my sponsors something back in exchange."

As part of the fundraising challenge, Andy will be producing a signed limited edition oil painting of a black rhino in the desert. Each sponsor who donates £20 or more will receive a print.

To sponsor Andy, send donations to him at Newgate Gallery, 6a The Bank, Barnard Castle, County Durham, DL12 8PQ.

He can also be contacted on (01833) 695201, or e-mail at inf