A FIRE officer is gearing up for a gruelling two-week challenge in aid of the families of fallen heroes.

Luke Phillips, 19, hopes to complete a 1,100-mile bike ride from John O'Groats to Land's End in just 14 days in September.

The 19-year-old is a trainer at Malpas fire station in Newport who works with teenagers hoping to become firefighters.

He and three colleagues from Cardiff hope to raise more than £2,000 for the Fire Services National Benevolent Fund.

"I know of a few firefighters from other brigades who lost their lives in the line of duty, and have seen how devastating it can be for the families," said Mr Phillips, of Southville, Cwmbran.

To prepare for the ride he is cycling 90 miles a week and doing four 90-minute work-outs in the gym each week.

Mr Phillips, who will apply to become a firefighter as soon as a vacancy arises, said he "can't wait" for the challenge.

"We all want to see the sights and we're doing it for an amazing, worthwhile charity," he added.

The group will stay at fire stations each night as they work their way down the length of Britain, and aim to post daily videos and photos of the journey.

For more information, or to make a donation, visit www.fourmenandabike.com.