Cyclists in St Albans are being urged to sign up for a charity triathlon and duathlon to raise money for children who are housed in orphanages around the world.

St James’s Place Foundation Sprint Triathlon is taking place on October 4, and involves a 400m indoor swim and a 21km cycle before finishing with a 5km run, with the money raised going to the charity, Hope and Homes for Children.

Duathlon entrants will start with a 5km run, followed by a 5km bike ride and another 5km run.

Racer, Martin Rashdi said: “We hope lots of local people and businesses will join us on the start line for what will be a really enjoyable day.

“The triathlon is a great team builder. The hard work is hugely rewarding and it is a very worthwhile thing to do for Hope and Homes for Children.”

Entering the race costs £15, with competitors asked to raise a further £485 in donations. But Sarah Drake, from Hope and Homes for Children, has urged people not to be put off by the figure.

She said: “The prospect of raising £485 may sound a little daunting to some, but rest assured we will be on hand with help and advice to ensure you reach the fundraising target and the finish line.

“Trophies will be awarded for the triathlon and duathlon’s fastest teams, individuals and top fundraisers.

“People get an enormous sense of achievement from not only taking part, but also knowing they are helping some of the most vulnerable children in the world escape harmful orphanages for loving families.”

The event, which has been running since 2002, has so far raised more than £1.5 million for Hope and Homes for Childrem, which works with governments across the globe to move vulnerable children out of orphanages and into family homes.

For more information and to sign up for the events click here.