FOUR cycling friends are embarking on a 1,000-kilometre journey to Barnsley’s twin-town in Germany.

Steven Cannon, Dominic McCall and twins Connor and Josh Newsome’s journey will unfold over several stages, which will see passing through Eindhoven in Holland, Cologne, the scenic Rhine Valley, Heidelberg and end in Schwabisch Gmund.

The friends are proud members of the Barnsley Road Club, which is celebrating its centenary this year.

Their final stage into Barnsley’s twin-town will see several German cycling teams join them to complete the Herculean effort, which will raise cash for the Barnsley-based LimbBo Foundation and the Dave Rayner Foundation.

Alan Brentnall, chair of the Barnsley Schwabisch Gmund Partnership, said: “The LimbBo Foundation is dedicated to supporting children with limb differences and their families.

“It provides a platform for connection, sharing experiences and organising activity days where children can meet peers with similar challenges.

“The foundation’s work extends to offering prosthetics, including 3D printed arms and bike adaptations, ensuring that no child is limited by their physical differences.

“The Dave Rayner Foundation, established in memory of the late cyclist Dave Rayner, has been supporting aspiring cyclists since 1994.

“Its mission is to nurture the future of cycling in the UK by empowering and supporting young cyclists, particularly those under 23 and from under-represented groups.

“The foundation provides financial assistance, mentorship, and mental support to help these young athletes thrive in the competitive world of cycling.( “As they pedal towards a brighter future for many, Barnsley Road Club invite the community to join them in spirit and support their cause.

“The ‘Grand Depart’ will take place from Barnsley Town Hall at 10am next Friday (July 19), waved off by Mayor of Barnsley Coun John Clarke.”