Cyclists complete coast-to-coast challenge

Cyclists (l-r): Adey Bennett, Jonny Eglin, Andy Hill, Nick Hodgson, Ian Kelly and Duncan Spelman arrive at the east coast

AN adventurous group of cyclists showed their grit as they pedalled more than 200 miles across England.

The Saddleworth six endured a rollercoaster five-day journey, climbing and descending over 26,000ft.

The ride raised £2,000 for Oldham Mountain Rescue Team.

Ian Kelly, of Uppermill, said: “To cover the miles we had to spend up to 10 hours per day in the saddle.

“We sincerely hope the money raised will help with the essential service that they provide.”

Travelling from the Irish Sea at St Bees on the Cumbrian coast, the fundraisers ended up at Robin Hood’s Bay on Yorkshire’s east coast in the Coast-to-Coast challenge — seen as one of the toughest around for UK riders.

Arriving at their destination after the long slog saw the team ceremonially dipping the bikes in the North Sea and throwing the pebbles they had carried from the start.