HAMPSHIRE coppers have ditched their uniforms for lycra as they embark on a gruelling cross-channel cycling challenge to help Pudsey raise thousands for vulnerable children.

Officers from across the county have been taking on a mammoth 123-mile pedal from France to Hampshire in aid of Children In Need.

Police from Winchester, Basingstoke and Alton are braving the whole challenge, with Chief Constable Andy Marsh and other colleagues joining them along the way to help keep spirits high.

The team arrived in Alecon, in France yesterday before cycling 75 miles to the port of Caen and boarding a ferry to Portsmouth last night.

Today they are taking on the final 48 miles to reach Basingstoke police station in relay pairs, snaking through Southampton and Winchester.

Detective Constable Rod Kenny, one of the organisers, said: “We've put lots of hard work into our training and just want to get out and do it now. We're doing this all in our own time and for a really great cause.

“We'd love to raise as much money as possible through this event and would encourage people to come out and support us on the day. We'll be running through a big chunk of Hampshire, so please come out and give us a wave.”

The team will reach Winchester at 12.30pm and hope people will gather to cheer them on.

To donate visit www.justgiving.com/basingstokecops.