Staff at a Norfolk care home will be going the extra mile to raise money to help pay for resident days out.

The team at Thorp House nursing home in Griston, near Watton, are planning a two-day cycle marathon.

They will be pedalling 433 miles - the distance from Griston to Land's End - on a stationary exercise bike in the lounge of the Church Road home.

Kirsty Holden, manager of the Kingsley Healthcare-run home, said: 'Some of my staff are already quite fit fortunately, but everyone is eager to have a go as it is for a really good cause.

'We are raising money for our residents' fund to pay for extra outings and activities.'

The event will start at 8am on May Day Bank Holiday on Monday, May 7 and is likely to finish close to midnight the following day.

'All my staff are going to take their turn on the bike and we will be going right through the night,' said Mrs Holden.

'On both days we will be inviting local people to come in and cheer us on.

'Because the cycling route would be taking us through Devon and Cornwall we will be offering visitors traditional cream teas. Bath is also on the route so there will be Bath buns too.

'There will be no charge for refreshments but we will be asking for voluntary sponsorship donations.'

During the two days of the cycling marathon, local sports people, including a martial arts club and body builders group, have been invited to give displays.

Activities coordinator Marcia Hughes said: 'Exercise plays an important part in my activities with the residents and we are noticing the benefits in improved mobility.

'We do Tai chi and balloon football and have started using a step machine.'

This is not the first time the staff have taken part in fundraising events.

Last year, three male staff members were persuaded, with a bit of arm twisting, to have their legs waxed to raise money for the Red Nose Day appeal. With the waxing carried out by colleagues.

Anyone willing to sponsor the team on their cycle marathon is invited to call the home on 01953 881786.

All are welcome to attend the two-day event to offer their support to the staff at the care home.