A COUPLE are preparing to cycle the length of Britain for the future of Kemp Hospice.

Mark and Sonia Hyrons, of James Road, Kidderminster, will set off on Saturday from Land's End on a 970-mile marathon that will take them to John O'Groats in just over two weeks.

The "lion's share" of the £2,000 they hope to raise will go to Kemp Hospice's £2.2 million appeal for a new home with better facilities, due to open in 2004. Mark and Sonia Hyrons kitted out for a cross-Britain cycle ride outside their Kidderminster home.

One of the reasons for their support is Mr Hyron's experience of seeing his former boss - struck down by cancer of the pancreas - helped by MacMillan nurses, who are supported by the hospice.

"We're happy to help as it's doing a wonderful job," he said.

Mr Hyrons, 40, a production director at Droitwich-based Pipe Supports, and his wife have already raised about £1,000 from companies, family and friends.

"We've had a very good response," he said. "I'm really looking forward to it. But I don't know whether we'll still be married when we get to John O'Groats!"

He added: "We've been going for it. Each weekend we've been going out on the bikes and doing about 50 or 60 miles."