Two Ukrainian refugees will cycle 30km across the South Downs for charity after signing up just two weeks after arriving in the country.

Iryna, 21, arrived in the country in Henfield after moving from Odesa as part of the Homes for Ukraine scheme.

After her host Mike James, 60, signed up for event before she arrived in the country, Iryna and fellow refugee Valerie, also 21, decided to join the mountain bike trek to raise money for a children’s hospice charity.

Mike said: “Like all of us, I’ve been following the news and seeing the events unfolding in Ukraine, and desperately wanted to do something to help.

“When the opportunity arose to provide accommodation for a Ukrainian refugee, I was more than happy to. Iryna hasn’t done much cycling before and we’re still trying to source decent bikes for her and Valeria, but they’re really keen to be part of it.”

Mike, Iryna and Valeria, who lives in Yapton with her mother, are set to trek across the South Downs as part of the Hit The Downs event, in aid of Chestnut Tree House.

The trio, who did not wish to reveal their surnames, have already raised £500 through sponsorship from Mike’s work and are aiming to raise £1,000 for the charity.

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Hit The Downs involves cyclists trekking off road to cover routes as long as 80km in aid of Chestnut Tree House and adult hospice charity St Barnabas House.

Routes for the cycle cut through the national park and take can take between three and eight hours to complete.

Chestnut Tree House provides hospice care for children with life-limiting conditions as well as bereavement services and other support to their families.

Mike added: “I know how important the hospice is to the local children and families they support, and how much they rely on donations and fundraising,”

“Having been affected by loss in the past, I know how much it can impact your life. If I can raise some money to help Chestnut Tree House continue their vital work, I’ll feel like I’ve helped someone on their journey.”