A cycling duo who reached national level in their youth are hitting the road together again for the first time in more than 50 years.

Andover’s Paul Welsh, 69, will be teaming up with old pal John Pankhurst, 65, to take part in a 52-mile cycle for assistance dog charity Canine Partners taking place Sunday, 1 October.

In the second year of the “Pedal for Paws” fundraising challenge across the South Downs National Park, Paul and John have already reached their £200 target for the Hampshire-founded charity.

Dad-of-two Paul, who will be cheered on by his wife Jenny and cockapoo Janey said: “I love riding my bike and I love dogs so I couldn’t resist the chance to take part in the ride with my great friend John, reliving our super cycling youth while raising funds for our noble four-footed friends.

“I’m intrigued to see how this ride compares with other types of cycling I have done over the years.

“I’m particularly looking forward to riding with John and lots of other like-minded riders while exploring a new area, sharing our cycling memories and meeting everyone that keeps Canine Partners so successful.”

Canine Partners has been training assistance dogs for 27 years, in its work to transform the lives of disabled people helping them with daily tasks.

John and his partner Sandy are involved with the group as voluntary puppy parents, helping to train a five-month-old Labrador called Zed.

The race kicks off to a fresh 8am start on the first day of October, and the charity are also looking for more cyclists to join the day.

To find out more visit caninepartners.org.uk/pedal4paws and to donate to John and Paul visit justgiving.com/fundraising/two-old-biky-mates