Lifecyclists today moved closer to Germany, which they will enter tomorrow, as they cycled uphill into the clouds, huffing and puffing but feeling their ride was being made worthwhile by the dramatic scenery.

The cyclists are now down to 41 as two had to stop today because of sprained knees. The challengers embarked on their feat from Venice last Monday, stopping in Lugano yesterday night.

They left their refuge in Lugano for today's 140 kilometre trek which included a ride through four tunnels and crossing the St Gotthard's Pass. They will tonight be sleeping in huts in Altdorf.

Tomorrow, they will enter Germany as they cycle 186 kilometres stopping at Villengen-Schwenningen.

The cyclists this year include a number of foreigners who work in Malta as well as five from the UK who joined Lifecycle in Venice for the purpose. Only one of the two female cyclists remains in the challenge. There is a back-up team of 19 people.

The 2,020 kilometre 12-day ride, named The Devil’s Highway, will this year end at the Old Trafford Manchester United Football Ground.

Before reaching Manchester, the team has to cycle through Switzerland, Germany, Luxembourg, Belgium and France.

This year’s 12th edition aims to attract 1,000 new people to register on the organ donor list and raise €200,000 to buy equipment for the renal unit, improve psychological support and buy a car to be used by unit staff to enable them to visit patients more regularly.

Founded in 1999, Lifecycle works to create awareness and raise funds and support for patients suffering from renal disease.

Donations can be made through the website www.lifecyclechallenge.com or by texting 5061 7370 to donate €2.33, 5061 8920 for €7 and 5061 9229 for €11.65. One can also phone 5004 9065 to give €10, 5004 9060 for €20 on 5004 9063 for €50.