They are in the running for the Pride of Australia Medal’s Community Spirit Award.

Comprising Albany Regional Prison officers, Porridge Bikers hold an annual bicycle ride through the region to raise funds, mainly for children’s causes.

Now preparing for their eleventh ride since forming in 1999, up to 20 prison officers raise funds by contacting local businesses and friends.

Their cycle ride in May will be to Denmark from Albany, taking in the Porongurups and Cranbrook where they will stay overnight. Previous rides of over 380km have been to Hopetoun and Walpole.

Porridge member Rob Daniels said more than $85,000 had been raised in the past 10 years with most going to the Albany Hospital’s children’s ward.