MORE than 20 water workers will be tapping into their reserves of strength as they take on an endurance cycle ride.

The team based at Northumbrian Water’s headquarters at Pity Me, in Durham City, plan to complete the 200-mile Coast and Castles route over the Bank Holiday weekend for the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

The ride takes in the fabulous coastal scenery and countryside between Newcastle and Edinburgh, including views of Tynemouth Priory, Dunstanburgh Castle, Bamburgh Castle, Holy Island, Seahouses, Arthurs Seat and Edinburgh Castle.

This latest challenge follows a successful Coast to Coast fundraiser in May last year, when the group raised more than £5,300 for WaterAid by cycling 140 miles from Whitehaven in Cumbria, to Sunderland.

Team member Kevin Thompson, who lives in Sunderland, said: "After completing the Coast to Coast challenge last year, we are stepping up a gear this year, by cycling even further and hopefully raising more money for a worthwhile charity.

"We chose the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation as our chosen charity this year.

"It’s a cause close to our hearts, as nearly everyone is touched by cancer at some stage in their lives, whether personally battling the disease or losing loved ones to the illness."

In light of the difficult economic climate, the team have set a modest fundraising target of £2,500. More than £800 has been raised so far, including a £250 boost from Northumbrian Water’s employee sponsorship fund, Cheque it Out.

Wellwishers have until the end of August to make a donation via the team’s Just Giving page at www.justgiving.com/nwl-is-bike-ride-2011.