The county's contribution to a national children's Bikeathon for charity has been saved from cancellation at the final hour.

The Bikeathon, launched by Blue Peter to raise funds for leukaemia research, was scheduled to take place in Abingdon, but the event's cycle path had to be closed because of foot and mouth disease.

A new cycle track has been found so that the youngsters can cycle at the same time as other young cyclists taking part in the event at more than 65 venues across the country.

The Oxford Bikeathon is now set to take place on Sunday, May 6, at 11am, starting at The Cherwell School in Marston Ferry Road, Oxford. The three-mile route will follow a supervised cycle path. Children can cycle as many laps as they like and parents are welcome to accompany young riders.

It is hoped the first Blue Peter bikeathon will go in the Guiness Book of Records as the largest organised cycling event ever held.

Oxford venue organizer Greta Darke is keen to hear from anyone who can provide a bouncy castle and ball pool to entertain young children and a band who would be willing to perform.

Volunteer marshals and car park attendants to direct families from the Marston Ferry swimming pool car park to The Cherwell School are also needed.

To find out more about the Bikeathon, visit the Blue Peter website at www.bbc.co.uk/bluepeter or contact Greta Darke on 01865 245997.