For three days, 60 cyclists have been working their way across Belgium as part of a charity challenge for The Argus Appeal.

The riders set off from Brighton at 7am last Wednesday to embark on the five-day expedition.

The near 145-mile ride, which coincides with the first anniversary of the First World War, saw the cohort visit Ypres and Bruges before getting to Ghent last night.

When it is over, the fundraisers will have a team of ten support staff to thank for plotting the route and guiding them safely throughout the journey.

Martin Brennan, 59, has cycled for The Argus Appeal before and divides his time this year between biking and supporting the trip.

He said: “The riders are loving it. They zoned in and followed the markers on the road.”

Belgium has a network of sign posted cycle routes, which come in handy for the ride.

Martin said: “We plotted the route from one city to the next.

“It is satisfying to see it all come together; everyone so far has found their way.

The route took in the Passchendaele and Tyne Cot Great War memorials.

Martin said: “It was very touching. Some members of the ride were looking for their granddads.

“You can talk about it but you have to be there to get the perspective.”

Today the cycle challenge negotiates 42 miles to Brussels.

Martin said: “It is a long day. Some will be tired but all will be jubilant to reach the finish in Brussels.”

The Argus Appeal. the charity of The Argus, is celebrating more than 50 years of giving to local people.

Choosing to support The Argus Appeal guarantees that every penny raised goes towards helping those in real need in the community.

Those wishing to apply to the appeal should write to Elsa Gillio, The Argus Appeal, Argus House, Crowhurst Road, Hollingbury, Brighton BN1 8AR or call 01273 544465.

You can also email elsa.gillio@theargus.co.uk with details of who you are, what you do, what you need and who will benefit.