An energetic team of Weston Hospicecare supporters have racked up an incredible 236 miles in a 24-hour cycling challenge on Weston seafront.

The 10-strong group – led by Dan Kear – included members of Oddballs Cycling club and riders of all ages, with up to 30 bikers joining in for stints during the 24 hours.

Three of the bikes – Dan, plus Jason Smith and Aaron Luker – managed to keep riding for the whole 24 hours, and achieved the incredible mileage total.

This is a big increase on the 212 miles achieved last year when the riders completed a similar challenge in aid of a different charity.

The riders were forced to battle against a mixture of hot weather and near-monsoon conditions at varying times, with heavy rain and strong winds.

Dan said he’d chosen to support the hospice because, after asking around among his fellow bikers, many had been touched by the work of the hospice or supported the charity in the past.

However, although he is aiming to repeat the event next year – and potentially expand it to include more people – he is now planning a rest period to help his body enjoy some much-needed recovery time.

He thanked those who took part, including partner Sandra Day, who completed much of the ride between being forced to retire through injury, and mum Shirley, who travelled to Weston from Sheffield to complete her own 103-mile stint in the saddle.

Dan reserved special mention too for youngsters Corey and eight-year-old Ashton Luker, who also took part in part of the ride, and offered a special thank you to Rich Fisher, who allowed the bikers to use Stones Café as a base and provided vital nourishment during their challenge.

Hospice challenge manager Simon Angear said: “We are constantly surprised and impressed by the lengths which supporters will go to in order to raise money for the hospice, and this is a great example of a tough and innovative fundraising challenge.

“Congratulations to everyone who played a part in this remarkable challenge, and huge thanks too for doing something so amazing in support of Weston Hospicecare.”