A DEAF teenager will go straight from sitting his GCSE exams into another challenge — a gruelling 137-mile charity bike ride.

Sharples 16-year-old Milo Saunders was diagnosed with severe hearing loss as a toddler and wears two hearing aids.

Since 2009 the teenager, who is a Year 11 student at Thornleigh Salesian College, has benefited from the sports activities and social events run by Ear 4 Kidz.

The Bolton-based family group aims to reduce the isolation of children in the borough who are deaf and have hearing impairments.

On July 17, Milo and proud dad Dave will take on the three-day challenge — cycling from Whitehaven to Tynemouth alongside five other friends.

Most of the team are involved with Ear 4 Kidz and have children with hearing impairments.

Mr Saunders, of Bramley Road, said: “Milo and I decided we wanted to do something for Ear 4 Kidz this year and we were quite keen to do a ride because we both love getting out on the bikes.

“The furthest distance we have ridden so far is 63 miles.”

Mr Saunders, who is a trustee for Ear 4 Kidz, said the team is hoping to raise at least £3,000.

The 46-year-old father-of-two, who works in Leigh as a motor mechanic, added: “The money we raise will go straight back into Ear 4 Kidz. Its impact is amazing.

“It is the social side of Ear 4 Kidz that Milo has really benefitted from.

“It helps children with similar conditions feel at ease mixing with each other and make friends.

“Kids can be cruel and it can be isolating being the only one with a hearing impairment in a group of hearing children.”

Jane Jones, chairman of Ear 4 Kidz, said: “We are so proud of all who are taking part.

“We are really just like one big family supporting each other and there for the whole family as and when they need us.

“The money will be used to allow us to continue our valuable work. We have just returned from our annual weekend away in Lytham St Annes and had a fantastic relaxing fun break where the children could feel confident to be themselves.

“It is a massive challenge for everyone taking part in this but we are especially proud of Milo. I think this really shows how much the charity means to the children themselves.”

To make a donation: go to uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/david.saunders827