Bikers and hikers in Barnet are being encouraged to get active to raise money for charity.

The North London Hospice has organised two events this summer which they hope will help fund part of the £5million running cost of the care service.

A women only midnight walk will take place on June 14, with hundreds of ladies expected to take to the streets of North London for the second year to walk 6.5 or 13 miles for sponsorship.

There will also be a cycle event on June 22 where people of all ages will have the chance to ride 20 or 40 miles across the countryside.

Pauline Treen, Fundraising Director said last year the events combined raised over £70,000.

"This year we are hoping to do even better and we want even more people to give up their time and take part," she added.

"We are also desperate for volunteers and marshalls as these events rely heavily upon their help.

"With running costs in excess of £5 million the hospice relies on the local community to help raise some of this money through fundraising events, and by getting involved it could help the hospice to continue its specialist care in Barnet."

Actress Maureen Lipman is an advocate of the Hospice after it cared for her husband Jack when he was diagnosed with terminal cancer, and she hopes people will support the work it does.

"I owe them a lot. Jack died beautifully. We, his family were there all night, hugging him and telling him how much we loved him," she said.

"Individual care is paramount, what you need, you get and you cannot fail to be affected by the thought that goes into every aspect of that care."

Anyone who would like to take part in the events and help raise money should contact the Hospice's fundraising office on 020 8446 2288 or email nmoore@northlondonhospice.co.uk.