AN adventurous couple who decided to cycle 15,000km to New Zealand are now on their way to China.

Isabel Michel and Terry McCarthy, left their Infirmary Walk home in Worcester on Saturday, April 16.

They have so far cycled across England, Germany, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, Russia, and most recently Mongolia.

Their amazing journey, which sprang from a combined love of travelling and keeping fit, will see them go through China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Australia before arrive in the land of the Kiwi in March next year.

Isabel, 29, and Terry, 37, both gave up their jobs to complete the trip, which will raise money for WaterAid, the international charity that makes sure people in the poorest countries in the world have fresh water.

Isabel said: "In Russia, a man drove past and began to sing Queen's Bicycle Race lyrics, I Want To Ride My Bicycle.

"Drivers in Mongolia were so considerate. I think it was because they are used to waiting for herds of sheep to cross the main roads."

The couple are marking their progress on their website www.homepage.mac. com/ isaetterry.

e encouraging local residents and businesses to sponsor them.

Isabel's former employer, the Kidderminster-based wastewater-treatment company, Purac, is already behind them.

Purac MD Malcolm Wilkinson said: "They both have a desire to help others and we are pleased to offer our support as sponsors for this worthy cause.

"We wish them well for the rest of their journey and look forward to seeing them on their return next year."