More than 350 youngsters took to two wheels to join a national sponsored bike-ride.

Sunday's Blue Peter Bikeathon saw young cyclists and fans of the BBC TV show using pedal power to raise cash for the Leukaemia Research Fund.

Children from around Oxfordshire rode along a three-mile circular course between Cherwell School, on Marston Ferry Road, north Oxford and Old Marston.

Emily Bennett, aged three with her dad TimThe Oxford event was part of a national series of sponsored rides, and is expected to raise up to £4,000.

It was launched live on the popular children's television programme by Blue Peter presenters Konnie Huq, Simon Thomas, Matt Baker and Lizz Barker - and Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker, who is a keen supporter of the charity.

The Bikeathon was the first of its kind, and organisers were delighted with the response. Some children rode up to five laps of the marshalled course.

John Darke, who helped organise the event along with his wife Greta, said: "It went extremely well, considering it was the first time we did it."

Mr Darke, from North Hinksey Village, is receiving treatment for leukaemia at the John Radcliffe Hospital. He added: "I think everyone enjoyed themselves and some parents even joined in - which was nice. The youngsters did very well and there was lots of high spirits."