PICTURES: Countess of Wessex cycles through Northumberland

She crossed the border on Monday afternoon before heading off from Otterburn on Tuesday morning as she raises funds to enable more young people to start their Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) Award, including those from disadvantaged or vulnerable backgrounds.

The DofE Diamond Challenge is a fund-raising initiative to help the DofE Charity continue to transform the lives of more young people who are at risk and marginalised.

It aims to give everyone a flavour of the life-changing benefits of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, and anyone, of any age, can sign up to take part.

The Countess said: "I am both excited and apprehensive to be undertaking this challenge on behalf of the DofE Award Diamond Anniversary Appeal.

"I have seen for myself the incredible impact the DofE has on every young life it touches, equipping young people with self-belief and motivation whatever their background or ability. So I had no hesitation in taking on a Diamond Challenge and hope this will encourage others to try their own."

The slideshow above features pictures of the Countess crossing the border at Carter Bar on Monday, departing from Otterburn on Tuesday morning and during a break at Corbridge.