PEDAL power has helped a North-East cycling club raise more than £4,000 for charity.

Last month, 12 cyclists from Carmel College Cycling Club, in Darlington, tackled the gruelling 200-mile Coast and Castles cycle route from Edinburgh to Darlington, raising £2,277 for St Teresa’s Hospice.

It is the second time the students, aged ten to 17, have taken on a challenge for charity after completing the coast to coast last year, bringing their fundraising total to £4,107.

The young cyclists overcame falls and injuries, as well as mechanical issues to complete their ride from June 19 to June 21.

Peter Jarps, a parent who rode with the group, said: “This was a life experience and being able to share it with a group of young adults that show such a high level of commitment and dedication to themselves, each other and their school and their chosen charity was an absolute honour and privilege.”

Cyclist Hannah Coates said: “It was fantastic to be part of a team, we really helped each other and at times it was tough but I’d do it again tomorrow and we raised loads.”

Local Motion cycling officer Kevin Kilcullen said: “The group have been a pleasure to work with both in the run up to the ride and during it.

“Whilst they faced an incident packed first day they pulled together and showed what true team spirit is about.”

The team were supported by Vauxhall motor dealer, Sherwoods, who provided a support vehicle to transport the riders’ gear throughout the challenge.

To donate visit justgiving.com/Carmel-Cycle-Club