Martin Allen (30), David O'Rourke (32) and Chris Smith (32) are embarking on a 4000-mile ride around Britain in aid of Macmillan and Marie Curie Cancer Care.

The charities are close to David's heart after losing his father, John, to cancer last August.

David said: "He was admitted to hospital on August 2 and the following Monday it was confirmed he had a tumour on his lungs which was pressing on his spine.

''By the Wednesday he was given six weeks to live, but he died that Saturday, August 11.

Knowing what the expedition meant to David, Martin – who stays in Falkirk – and Chris decided to get on board, with the three avid bikers hoping to complete the challenge in 10 days.

Martin said: "It's not quite the Long Way Round but it is the first time we have done something like this and it will be a new challenge. Most people know someone who has been affected in some way by cancer."

David said: "While we are going on a fantastic journey, we won't forget the reason why we are clocking up 400 miles a day.

''I hope dad will be watching over us as we climb through the Highlands, cross the Borders, take in spectacular scenery and meet many people along the way."

The trio start their adventure at South Queensferry on August 2. From there the team will head anti-clockwise around Britain using the coastal roads.

For more information, visit www.coastrode.co.uk or join the team as a friend on myspace - www.myspace.com/coastrode - to follow their journey and make a donation