Two PE teachers are battling near record-breaking temperatures as they attempt a 2,000 kilometre journey from Gravesend to northwest Ireland.

Lorraine McCormack and Rachel Knott began their epic journey at The Cyclopark in Gravesend on Tuesday, and aim to arrive in Donegal on August 2, on a ride that will raise money for Solace Donegal Cancer Support Centre.

The ride is the final leg of a mammoth challenge to cycle 10,000 kilometres in the space of a year, and the pair have already met with a few stumbling blocks, with Rachel having been knocked off her bike while training in January.

But the start of their journey has brought fresh - or not so fresh - challenges as temperatures pushed into the 30s on Tuesday and Wednesday and reached almost record breaking heights across the country on Thursday.

But Rachel's husband Darrel said the intrepid pair remained determined to complete the challenge.

"It is going to be tough as they have decided to start their ride just as a heatwave is about to start," he said. "Slow and steady it will be with multiple stops to keep hydrated - not in a pub!"

And he added: "They have been absolutely blown away by everyone's generosity in supporting Solace Cancer Centre, this will truly inspire them to keep pedalling on those really hard days."

Lorraine and Rachel began their journey accompanied by fellow club riders, who rode with them until they hit Greenwich on Tuesday, but they are now on their own until they reach Donegal.

The idea to support Solace Donegal Cancer Support Centre, came after the centre offered invaluable support to Lorraine and her family when she lost her mother to cancer two years ago.

To donate to the cause visit the Just Giving fundraising page.

Read more: All the latest news from Gravesend