GENEROUS staff are “cycling around the world” to raise cash for a Southend Hospital appeal.

Workers at the Genting Club casino, inWestern Esplanade, are doing their bit for the keyhole cancer fundraising drive by using exercise bikes to carry out the sponsored cycle.

As part of the appeal, static bikes have been put in offices across Southend over the last two months as the hospital try to reach the target of cycling “Around the World (or 24,901.55 miles) in 80 Days”.

With the challenge due to be completed at the end of the month, staff at the club swapped roulette wheels for bicycle wheels for one last push to the finish line. John Harland, public relations and marketing manager at the Genting Club, said: “We believe in supporting local charities and all our staff were keen to get involved in this challenge.

“Some of us are fitter than others, but we all wanted to give it a go for such a great cause.

“We are raising money through sponsorship and donations and our customers have given generous support, with some having a go on the bikes, too.”

The club clocked up 300 miles and raised £150 towards the £600,000 target when two bikes were set up at the club earlier this month.