A FUNDRAISING duo are back on track for their 11th charity cycling challenge.

Norman Starrs and Keith Hockley were forced to postpone a 300-mile, six-day ride around South Africa earlier this month because of a lack of fellow riders.

Now they are rescheduling their trip for next autumn and, in the meantime, are back training and collecting sponsorship.

The pair each needs sponsorship pledges of £3,200 for the Deaf Children’s Society to be eligible and they reckon they are now at the halfway stage.

Mr Starrs, 58, works at Clacton Leisure Centre, while Mr Hockley, 60, runs his own business in Valley Road, Clacton.

In the past, they have raised many thousands of pounds cycling in Egypt, India, Mexico and Vietnam.

Their South African cycle ride is due to take them along the Garden Route, with the aim of reaching the most southerly point in Africa, Cape Agulhas, and the most south-westerly point, the Cape of Good Hope. The expedition will take them through forests, farmland, mountains and deserted white beaches.

While in training, the cyclists will be staging fundraising events, such as dances, quizzes and race nights.

To sponsor them, call Mr Starrs, on 01255 476729, or Mr Hockley, on 01255 431568.