A STICKLEPATH youngster has set herself a challenge to hop on her bike and cycle from Okehampton to Meldon and back to raise money for people suffering in the Phillipines.

Ten-year-old Nell Stephens-Hodge wanted to do something to help, after hearing about the destruction in the Phillipines and set herself the challenge of taking on a sponsored cycle. She will be raising money for the DEC Phillipines Disaster Appeal.

Nell's mother Kate said: 'I am exceptionally proud of her — it was all her own idea. She has already raised around £200 from friends and family and knocking on doors around Sticklepath. We will all be there to support her and cheer her on.'

Nell will be accompanied by her 70 year old grandfather Martin Stephens-Hodge, who is a keen cyclist.

She will leave Okehampton Station on Sunday at 2pm.

Anyone who would like to support her or would like to donate to her cause can contact her mother Kate on 01837 840484.